Jaylun’s Story: Finding a Way Forward

Jaylun’s early years were shaped by instability and a sense that trouble was inevitable. From a young age, consequences felt normal — almost expected — and the idea that life could look different felt out of reach.

When he was around 11 or 12, Jaylun spent time at the park playing basketball. It was there that older individuals began approaching him, offering drugs and inviting him to spend time with them. At first, he resisted. But over time, persistence turned into familiarity, and familiarity began to feel like belonging.

What Jaylun didn’t realize then was that the sense of family he felt came with strings attached. As he got older, the expectations placed on him escalated. He was pulled deeper into situations involving drugs, money, and eventually weapons. What once felt like connection became something much more dangerous.

Jaylun reached a point where he knew he had two choices: continue down a path that was leading him further into harm, or find a way out.

Not long after, Jaylun was arrested and spent time in jail. While incarcerated, someone offered him a piece of advice that would stay with him: when an opportunity comes, take it.

When Jaylun was released, he had nowhere to go. He was homeless, sleeping in a park, and trying to reconnect with family — but no one responded. He was alone, unsure of what his next step should be.

Then, one small act of kindness changed everything. A stranger took the time to point Jaylun toward City House.

From the moment Jaylun arrived, he felt something he hadn’t felt in a long time: stability. He knew immediately that this was where he was meant to be. At City House, Jaylun began to experience consistency, trust, and support — not as a handout, but as a foundation.

For the first time, Jaylun was able to slow down and focus on himself. He learned how to manage his emotions, build healthy relationships, and communicate openly. Coming from an environment shaped by drugs and gangs, these skills didn’t come easily — but with guidance and patience, they began to take root.

Jaylun also started to see how his actions affected others. At City House, accountability and care went hand in hand, helping him recognize his own impact and potential.

With support from City House, Jaylun secured a job at a local stadium. It was more than just employment — it was proof that the tools he was gaining were working. The stability, coaching, and encouragement he received helped him not only keep the job, but build confidence, make connections, and pursue new opportunities.

As Jaylun moved forward, the impact of City House became even clearer. He began landing job interviews and developing a vision for his future — something that once felt impossible.

City House didn’t just provide resources. Staff modeled how to use those resources effectively, empowering Jaylun to take ownership of his growth and apply what he learned in real life. Throughout his time at City House, the focus was always on helping him build toward independence and long-term stability.

Jaylun’s story is a powerful reminder that young people don’t need to be written off because of their past. With the right support, consistency, and belief, a different future is possible.

At City House, we are honored to walk alongside young people like Jaylun as they take courageous steps toward stability, independence, and hope.