Charles Winston and his Road to Homeownership

Charles came to Way Finders in 1997. At that time, he was unemployed and needed our assistance to secure a Section 8 housing voucher. Years later, Charles, now a single father, learned about his opportunity to participate in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program – and that was the beginning of his journey to where he is today.

Charles’ own words tell his story best:

“Enrolling in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program was a no-brainer – the program was all about setting goals and making a plan to achieve a better quality of life for myself and my son. It was exactly what I needed.”

Over the course of several years, Charles moved into a new apartment, and then focused on finding and maintaining good a job, building his credit, and learning about household budgeting. He even began to think about owning his own home, something he never dreamed of before entering the FSS program.

“I had the best team I could ever ask for – the A-Team – my angels. From Sonia and Luz at Way Finders, to my realtor, Arlene and my mortgage loan officer, Ben. They were right there to help me with every obstacle along the way – they made me believe my dreams were possible.”

On July 24, 2017, through his own incredible determination, hard work, and support from his team of angels, Charles became a homeowner for the first time. Today, he encourages others to follow his same path:

“The staff, the programs, the classes – if you’re a single parent, or are looking to own a home, build your credit, or whatever it may be – Way Finders is the best. What I have accomplished in this program is a dream come true. It seems like just yesterday when I started. I’ve gained a ton of confidence and today I’m a homeowner. It’s incredible.”

At Way Finders, we believe everyone has the potential to learn, to grow, and to thrive. Our staff members are the coaches – the cheerleaders that provide access to tools, and encouragement along each client’s journey. It was Charles who did the work, Charles who had the drive to set goals and imagine a better future for himself and his young son. 

Your gift to Way Finders today will ensure that we can continue to light pathways and open doors to homes and communities where people thrive. Our donors are the critical link to matching clients with the services and long-term support they need to achieve success.

Your donation has the power to help people like Charles turn their dreams into reality. Thank you for your support.