My Nonprofit Reviews

I was a resident of Delancey Street’s San Francisco facility for nearly 10 years, following 10 years in and out of San Quentin. I truly thought I had thrown my life away and there was no way to get it back. You get so mired in the whole lifestyle, there just seems to be no hope. As I was going to court for (yet another) conviction, I knew I needed to make some change, and I knew it had to be something serious. At 45, I had just about lost all hope. The life-changing effect Delancey Street had on me is nothing short of miraculous. I went there not knowing what to expect, and stayed for 10 years in order to help others have the opportunity I was given. It’s a pretty simple format: you’re given respect, and are expected to give others the same. Granted, Delancey Street may not be for everyone. You have to be trusting and willing to accept responsibility and live your life with some dignity. I was very fortunate to be part of a pilot project with San Francisco State University and earned a bachelors degree in Urban Studies, which I have used to help secure my position with UCSF. My boss, a former Chancellor here, when hearing my response about where I had worked previously, said, “How was I so lucky to get someone from Delancey Street?” That’s just how well respected Delancey Street is here in the Bay Area. I have a close group of friends (some former residents, others not), and very active in many community organizations, and am enjoying a life I thought no longer possible.

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