We recently celebrated our final REAL LIFE graduation of 2025 at Union Presbyterian Seminary, and it was every bit as meaningful as this milestone deserves. The evening was a powerful reminder of growth, perseverance, and the strength found in community.
Two of our eighteen graduates, Daryl and Savanna, opened the night by sharing their journeys.
Daryl reflected, “The program gave me structure, it gave me discipline, it gave me accountability, and the chance to look at myself in the mirror and decide who I really wanted to be.” Today, he’s thriving with steady work, a new car, a new apartment, a mentorship role, and the opportunity to be an example for others.
Savanna spoke next, sharing that “This program gave me something that I didn’t know I had lost: hope.” She thanked the people who walked beside her and closed with a powerful reminder: “Don’t give up five minutes before the miracle happens, because if it can happen for someone like me, it can happen for you too.”
We also celebrated several members of our staff with lived experience who completed a nine-week leadership course with Dr. Chris from the Leadership Institute. Each received a certificate recognizing this milestone and the leadership they bring to REAL LIFE.
And because it wouldn’t be a REAL LIFE celebration without music, the night ended on a high note. Our team shared the very first live performance of the 2025 REAL LIFE Recovery Month song, followed by fan favorites like “Can’t Touch This” and “Freebird” from Housing Manager Young and his band.
The evening wrapped with a warm Friendsgiving meal shared among graduates, families, and staff. Sitting together over good food and even better conversation was the perfect way to close out such a meaningful night.
