Chuck’s Story
Chuck is a father to five children. However, Chuck was an addict that made some poor decisions that led to him being incarcerated for over a year. Chuck had never been clean and sober his entire adult life. Once released from prison, Chuck’s addiction led to being homeless. It was during this time that he sought out the treatment facility Standing By The Door for help in his recovery.
While in recovery, Chuck sought to establish paternity for his kids. He wanted to be involved in his kids’ lives, not simply see them every other weekend. Chuck also signed up to go through our Elevate Work program.
While attending classes at Elevate Work, Chuck received a call from the Division of Family Services (DFS) asking if he would be able to take his children temporarily. His kids were living with their mother who, unfortunately, fell back into addiction. Chuck jumped at the chance to be the dad his kids needed. After a probationary period, Chuck was granted full custody of his children.
Had Chuck not established paternity when he did; had he not gone to Standing By The Door for help with his recovery; had he not gone to Elevate Work to pursue employment and have the support he needed; then Chuck and his children would have been just another statistic. Chuck didn’t want to just be a father to kids he rarely saw. He wanted to be a dad intimately involved in his kids’ everyday lives.
Chuck said it best, “I really believe that I’m doing what God wants me to do. If God is our Father and we are created in His image, then I’m doing what He wants me to do. I’m doing my best to be a good father.”
Chuck graduated from Elevate Work and has been employed at Chili’s for over three years. He brings his kids to our Elevate Kids programs, both After-School and Summer School, as he seeks support to be the best father he can! This summer Chuck’s son, Calvin, finally reunited with his dad, saying, “I’m living my best dream!”
A father’s impact on the lives of his children cannot be underestimated. Generational poverty must be stopped. Through your support of Elevate Branson and its programs, it can be! Chuck is a perfect example of just how beautiful that can be.
