Meet Pierre
He’s transforming his life at Cara, thanks to your support.
What was your life like before Cara?
I got kicked out of school and I had nowhere to go. I grew up in and out of jail, in the streets. I was incarcerated probably ten times, every four to six months, just going back in for something. I was on the road to destruction.
How would you describe yourself then?
I had no real guidance. Basically just living the street life, going nowhere.
How did you first hear of Cara?
My dad went through Cara and he wanted me to experience it for myself. He basically told me whenever I was ready, he would help me. I just wasn’t there yet. It wasn’t until I took a hard look at how I was living…that’s when I called him and told him, “Dad, I’m ready.”
Click here to read Willie and Pierre’s story of two generations of Cara participants.
Do you remember your first impression of Cara?
I had been through similar programs throughout my life with no success, but I noticed that there was something different here. The family, the community that was here…for the first time in my life, I had people who wanted to help me and push me in the right direction. I set my mind that I wasn’t giving up any more. Period.
Describe an important lesson learned at Cara.
I learned how to look with new eyes. My old eyes had seen nothing but turmoil, hurt, danger, everything you can imagine. When I really thought about it, I knew I had to open my eyes and expand my horizons to change and that I needed to start at the source – my behavior. It was making me self-destruct.
What was it like the first day you put on a suit to come to Cara?
It was overwhelming. The only time I had ever dressed up was when I was going to a funeral. I didn’t have a suit in my closet for so long. Now I can wear one every day of the week. I feel more a part of society when I walk down the street.
If you could go back to your first day of Cara and give yourself any piece of advice, what would it be?
Walk through this door, don’t let anything distract you from what you’re trying to do, and don’t give up. There’s been a few times when I’ve just said, “Forget it. I’m done.”
What’s your go-to song for the Motivations circle?
“I Know You Want to Leave Me,” by the Temptations.
Describe yourself now.
Humble, respectful, and witty.
Where would you be without Cara?
I’d still be on the streets. Doing everything I used to do. On that path to destruction.
What motivates you?
Never giving up. Always talking to someone. Knowing there is someone willing to help. Motivation is a powerful word, because every day you have to motivate yourself. If I don’t stay motivated, I’m not going to go anywhere.
Pierre is transforming his life. Learn how you can help him unlock his power and purpose by getting back to work.
