Our Participant's Say
M. T.
When I joined EASE in December 2025, I was going through one of the most difficult periods of my life. I was living out of my truck, struggling with substance use, and had lost much of my stability and hope for the future. The EASE team believed in me even when I had difficulty believing in myself. With their encouragement, I entered treatment and began rebuilding my life one step at a time.
Since then, I have found steady employment, returned to a stable and supportive home, contributed to household expenses, and started therapy to strengthen my recovery and develop healthier coping skills. One of my most meaningful accomplishments has been rebuilding my relationship with my son and being able to spend time with him again. I am proud of how far I have come and grateful that EASE recognized every step of my progress. Their support helped me see that lasting change, stability, and a better future were possible.
C. H.
I set a clear and meaningful goal for myself: to pursue an education in cybersecurity through the University of Washington Tacoma. I wanted to build a stronger future and find a career that genuinely interested and challenged me. By connecting with local resources and using disability-related educational benefits, I was able to enroll in online cybersecurity courses and focus on my education and personal growth. I adapted quickly to the online learning environment, remained consistent with my attendance, and became deeply engaged in the material.
Cybersecurity has sparked a real passion in me and made learning feel both exciting and meaningful. Beginning this journey has given me a renewed sense of purpose and direction. As I continue my studies, I look forward to exploring the different specialties within cybersecurity and choosing a path that fits my strengths and interests. This experience has shown me that setting a goal, using available resources, and staying committed can lead to meaningful personal and professional growth.
P. G.
When I entered the Supported Housing Program five years ago, I was experiencing housing instability while also fighting cancer. I felt scared and overwhelmed, and trying to focus on my health without a stable home made everything more difficult. The program staff treated me with kindness, respect, and compassion and reminded me that I did not have to face everything alone.
With their support, I was approved for my own one-bedroom apartment and received assistance with groceries and essential household items. Walking into my own home for the first time filled me with relief and gratitude. Stable housing gave me a safe and peaceful place to recover, attend medical appointments, and focus on my treatments. Today, I am grateful to say that I am in remission and looking toward the future with hope. The program gave me more than a place to live—it gave me stability, dignity, encouragement, and the opportunity to rebuild my life.
J. C.
My time with EASE was short, but it made a meaningful difference in my life. I was only in the program for about a month because I needed to relocate to Snohomish County, but during that time the team consistently encouraged me to continue my education and keep moving forward when things felt difficult. One of my proudest accomplishments was renewing my pharmacy license, an important step toward returning to my field and becoming more financially independent.
After renewing my license, I secured a job at a Walmart pharmacy, where I can gain experience and continue building toward the future I want. Although I wish I could have spent more time with the program, I am leaving with important accomplishments, greater confidence, and a stronger sense of independence. I am grateful that the people at EASE genuinely cared about my success and reminded me that I can continue making progress, even when life presents challenges.
M. O.
I set my sights on becoming a bus driver and worked hard to turn that goal into a lasting career. When my first position did not work out, I refused to let the setback stop me. I found another opportunity, continued my training, and earned my CDL. Today, I am proud to be working as a school bus driver in a career I intentionally built to support my family for years to come. The journey required early mornings, long days, persistence, and the willingness to keep moving forward through every challenge.
At the same time, I have balanced two jobs, cared for my mother, raised a busy household, and continued showing up for the people who depend on me. My success is rooted in hard work and determination, but having a supportive community also made a difference. Through EASE, I found encouragement, accountability, and people who understood my journey and celebrated my accomplishments alongside me.
A. C.
After a physical injury left me unable to continue working in person, I struggled to find employment I could perform safely while recovering. Remote work was the best option for my circumstances, but finding a legitimate position that matched my skills and experience was difficult. As time passed, I worried about paying my bills and regaining stability. Through EASE, I received help researching suitable opportunities, preparing cover letters, completing applications, connecting with resources, and staying encouraged when the search felt discouraging.
After a long search, I interviewed with and was offered a remote position as a Social Worker, Case Manager, and Employment Specialist. I can now use my own experiences to help others work toward employment, stability, and independence. Securing this position allowed me to breathe again, restored my confidence, and renewed my sense of purpose. My journey taught me that patience, perseverance, and the right support can open doors that once seemed out of reach.
T. S.
My success story began during a difficult season when medical issues with my leg made it impossible for me to continue working. Taking medical leave was hard, but instead of giving up, I decided to become a participant in EASE’s FCS employment program. I accepted support and used that season as an opportunity to rebuild my life. The EASE team believed in me, recognized the value of my experience, and went the extra mile to connect me with another organization providing similar services.
With their encouragement and advocacy, I applied for a position and was offered the job. Today, I am working again and continuing to serve others through the FCS program. I am grateful for the confidence EASE placed in me and for the support that helped me move into this new chapter. What initially felt like a setback became the foundation for a new beginning and reminded me that difficult seasons can lead to unexpected opportunities and blessings.
S. O.
When I enrolled in the program in November 2025, I was determined to improve my circumstances and create greater stability for myself and my family. I met consistently with my housing and employment professionals and worked toward several important goals, including moving out of sober living, obtaining reliable transportation, strengthening my employment prospects, and becoming more independent.
One of my most meaningful accomplishments was welcoming my children back into my life and rebuilding those important family relationships. With employment support, I developed a professional résumé, gained confidence, and became better prepared to pursue long-term job opportunities. A major turning point came when I secured my own apartment in Lakewood. Moving into stable, independent housing gave me a strong foundation, greater peace of mind, and room to continue growing. I am proud of the progress I have made and remain committed to my goals. My journey shows what determination, consistent effort, and supportive resources can make possible.