Resident Success Story: From Experiencing Homelessness to Nursing School
Providing Support is at the Forefront of our Mission
At Wallick, access to stable housing combined with supportive services creates meaningful opportunities for individuals and families to move forward with confidence. Through our communities, residents gain not only a safe place to live, but a foundation for growth and stability. Our partner nonprofit Resident Resources Network (RRN) and the dedication of our Service Coordinators help connect residents to essential resources, from basic needs and youth programs to educational and career guidance.
As stability grows, residents are encouraged to pursue goals that once felt out of reach, including higher education and meaningful careers. When life presents challenges, compassionate support remains in place, offering guidance, resources, and reassurance through difficult moments. Together, these efforts empower residents to build confidence, resilience, and a future filled with possibility.
Alvina’s Story
Access to stability, education, and compassionate community support can change the course of a family’s future, and that is exactly what happened for Alvina, a resident at Chadwick Place Apartments.
Need for Housing Stability
Before finding housing at Chadwick, Alvina was experiencing homelessness and living in her car with her infant son. Determined to build a better life for her children, she connected with Wallick’s partner nonprofit Resident Resources Network for support, and that connection became a turning point.
Support for Her Children
Through RRN and the dedication of Service Coordinator Tricia Amenhauser, Alvina received critical assistance that helped ease immediate financial strain, including winter coats, backpacks, and summer camp opportunities for her children through community partners and donations. RRN also supported Alvina as she navigated educational resources for her daughter, helping identify more supportive school environments for children with autism.
A Path to a Career
As Alvina regained stability, Resident Services encouraged her to pursue her long-term goal of becoming a nurse. In January 2025, she enrolled in the RN program at Lorain County Community College. When grant funding did not fully cover required lab supplies, RRN worked alongside Remote Service Coordination Manager Carrie Overly to secure a Wallick scholarship, removing a financial barrier that could have delayed her progress.
“Despite adversity, Alvina turns challenges into motivation–her empathy and drive make her a natural fit for nursing, and it’s inspiring to watch her strive for greatness.”
– Tricia Amenhauser, Service Coordinator
Support Through Loss
During an especially difficult season following the loss of her father, Resident Services continued to stand beside Alvina by offering emotional support, grief counseling resources, and coordinating with a local animal rescue to safely rehome her father’s dog.
Today, Alvina has stable housing, growing confidence, and a clear path toward a meaningful healthcare career, supported by a strong community and her own resilience.
RRN’s Service Coordination team helped Alvina move from a situation that many would find overwhelming into confidence in herself and a future of possibility for her and her children. For Alvina, “There is always a way so never give up.”
We are incredibly proud of Alvina and all she has accomplished. Her journey is a powerful reminder that when access to opportunity meets unwavering support, thriving is possible.
