“I got in trouble because I was trying to fit in, trying to do things the fast and easy way. I’ve learned that things that come fast and easy don’t last long.”

Stanley Jackson, 38 years old, had been incarcerated for 13 years. When his grandmother died while he was in prison, he lost all contact with his family. Upon his release, he had no place to live, no job, no friends or family.  At the city bus depot, a man told him about the Homeless Assistance Center (Center). Stanley came into BPHI’s program and during the assessment period was diagnosed with a mental health condition, which BPHI’s board-certified psychiatrist was able treat with medication.

He entered BPHI’s Workforce Development Center program and began taking the steps necessary to receive a certificate in Culinary Arts.  “I was interested in cooking because it reminds me of my mom,” said Stanley. “She loved to cook.”

To achieve his goal, BPHI provided Stanley with appropriate uniform for his training, bus passes, a bicycle and the Center’s library provided him a quiet place to do his homework. Stanley completed the Culinary Arts program at McFadder Vocational-Technical, and his citrus vinaigrette recipe was awarded top honors. Stanley is now the head chef at a popular restaurant on Fort Lauderdale beach.

When he moved out of the Center, Stanley received help in furnishing his apartment through BPHI’s "Moving On" program. He has also re-established connection with his family and enjoys spending his time off with his brother and two nephews.

"I never would have been able to achieve any of this without the caring help I received at BPHI,” said Stanley. “My next goal is to come back and volunteer in whatever capacity I can to help the Center. It is my time to pay back!"

Stanley appeared on the 9/2/07 broadcast of Dr. Stephen L. Goldstein's weekly WXEL radio program, "Fundraising Success."

LISTEN TO A PODCAST OF STANLEY'S INTERVIEW!

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