LifeSpring’s First Resident is Graduating

The very first resident to move into the LifeSpring house is now graduating from North County Lifeline’s transitional housing program. We couldn't be more proud of Omar and his accomplishments over the past two years.

Omar first accessed Lifeline’s services in March 2013 as a Life Achievement Center participant, to set financial and employment goals. Soon after, Omar became the first resident to enter LifeSpring, our transitional youth housing program for former foster youth. 

Omar was 20 years old and, after years in the foster care system, had not developed the skills needed to thrive. Omar was working two part-time jobs, did not have a high school diploma, had recently acquired $1,600 in traffic tickets, was struggling to develop a relationship with his 15-month old son, and had recently been served child support papers. He described himself as friendly, disorganized, and hardworking. 

During the last 21 months, Omar has shown great resilience and determination.

Omar enrolled in Vista Adult School and graduated with his high school diploma within a few months. He completed North County Lifeline’s employment workshop and found a job which eventually transitioned into a permanent, full-time position which he has maintained for a year. Omar completed a program which cleared his $1,600 in traffic fees and enabled him to keep his driver’s license. To achieve his financial goals, Omar increased his credit score by removing a large medical collection and opening a matched savings account.  

Despite a very strained relationship with the mother of his son and uncertainty about his ability to be a good father due to lack of a father figure in his own life, Omar never gave up on developing a relationship with his son. He has stepped up financially, despite having a low income, and is up to date with his child support. Omar now has custody of his son 3 weekends each month. 

When he moved in to LifeSpring, Omar set high goals – and he has proudly accomplished them. 

Upon graduating from LifeSpring, Omar plans to enroll in the HOME program, a more independent transitional housing program for former foster youth. He is considering attending Universal Technical Institute for diesel technician training in order to enter a career that can provide long-term stability for his family.  

With resilience and determination, Omar will succeed along any path he chooses.

Congratulations, Omar. 

Story submitted by:
Jacqueline Diem, LifeSpring Case Manager
Rolando Caralampio, Housing Specialist & Income Supports Coach