Before coming to Omaha Home for Boys, Ebony’s life was marked by instability and hardship. She bounced from home to home and struggled to hold down jobs. Her time in foster care left her without a support system or anyone she could count on. As a young teen, Ebony felt lost, describing herself as “distraught.” Depression weighed heavily on her, and while she wanted to take steps toward her goals, she didn’t know where to begin.

That all began to change when Ebony’s court appointed guardian introduced her to OHB. Her life began to transform when OHB helped her in many practical ways, from getting back into school to working on life skills like budgeting, time management, and preparing for adulthood. These tools have opened Ebony’s eyes to the possibilities ahead.

“I came here broken, but I’m not that person anymore. They are helping build me back up. I’m happy. I feel great,” she said with a radiant smile on her face.

One of the most impactful aspects of Ebony’s time at OHB has been the support system she discovered. For the first time, she had people who believed in her.

“Kiera, my Specialist, she believes in me, and it makes me want to prove to her that I can accomplish my goals as long as I put in the effort and the work,” said Ebony. “Kiera told me to keep my head up. Nobody else would have said that to me.”

Today, Ebony is thriving. She’s working full-time, pursuing her high school diploma, and making plans to take business classes in college. She’s also working toward getting her driver’s license – another step toward independence. For someone who never thought she’d have a stable place to live, Ebony now has a home and a future filled with hope.

When asked what she loves most about OHB, Ebony’s smile grew even bigger. “They actually believe in me!” she exclaimed. “It’s crazy because I’ve never had so much support in my life, so to me, I feel like they’re family. Omaha Home for Boys, it is a HOME.”

Ebony truly wishes you were sitting right next to her so that she could tell you in person how much your support of OHB means to her, but instead, we’ll pass along her simple but sincere message:

“You all did a whole lot for me. It’s been a great opportunity. I love you all! That probably sounds weird, but I do!”
– Ebony

Ebony’s story is one of transformation, hope, and a fresh start. Thanks to the generosity of people just like you, she’s no longer lost. She’s part of a family that believes in her and a future that’s brighter than ever.