Last month, residents of Wellroot Family Services’ Transitional Living Program moved into the new apartments in Decatur, Georgia, just a few steps away from downtown Oakhurst. According to Wellroot CEO Allison Ashe, the apartments were purchased specifically for their accessibility to jobs, schools, and public transportation. That dream of accessibility and opportunities for Wellroot residents is already a reality.

“Deshawn is one of our new, young adult residents who has aged out of foster care,” said Arnell Ferguson, a transitional specialist. “As soon as we settled in at Oakhurst, Deshawn wanted to apply for a part-time job, so we visited several businesses downtown. On our very first day filling out job applications, Deshawn was given an opportunity to interview for a job.”

Arnell and Deshawn’s Wellroot life coach immediately jumped into action to help Deshawn prepare for the interview.

“We covered at least five or six life skills that week to get Deshawn ready for the interview, from shopping for business attire to organizing a mock interview with several staff members,” Ferguson said. “It was a great opportunity!”

All the hard work and life skill training paid off. After a successful interview, Deshawn was offered a part-time position!

“Wellroot offers a program, start to finish, with so many people to help the youth succeed.  If the youth follow their plan, a plan developed with support from their Wellroot life coach, case manager, program manager and so many more champions, they leave our program with skills, a degree, and the financial security to succeed,’ said Cotty Everheart, lead transition specialist.

Deshawn is a few weeks into the new job. He says it is challenging, but he loves that he can easily walk to work. It is a steppingstone to a better future.

GivingTuesday is just around the corner! It is through generous donors like you that Wellroot can provide a home for Deshawn and support services like skills training needed to become a successful adult. If you would like to support Deshawn and our mission, please #GiveHome and donate at Giving Tuesday – Wellroot Family Services.

About Our Residential Programs 

Transitional and Independent Living Programs

We shepherd young adults as they transition from foster care to adulthood. Our programs provide 24-hour support as well as community-based housing to each youth.  Wellroot offers ongoing life skills development, including financial literacy, tutoring, personal development, career development and education about nutrition and health. As part of both programs, we guide residents through the process of earning their high school diploma or GED and offer assistance entering college or trade school. Learn more. 

Family Housing Program 

Families accepted into our program are serious about leveraging the support we offer and gaining the skills needed to ensure their long-term sustainability upon completion of our program. We provide housing and financial assistance to these families, removing the barrier of homelessness by helping them move toward self-sufficiency. We offer courses in parenting, financial management, career coaching, and personal development among others, as well as help with continuing education. Upon graduation from our program, families have at least $1,000 in savings and steady employment. Learn more. 

Our Residents’ Stories

“Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tiptoe if you must, but take a step.” This summer, we have 3 special graduations to celebrate! Read more.

We are so proud of Raekwon, ILP graduate, for his dedication to achieving his degree in banking, and graduated from Morehouse May 2022. Read more.

On September 30, 2021 two months after transitioning from our program Kiara bought her first HOME! Read more.

As a first-generation American, Grace entered TLP unsure of her future. That’s when Wellroot’s team wrapped around her and became a second family for Grace. Read more.

Maria didn’t let her circumstance become an excuse. Determined to graduate on time, with perseverance and hard work, she graduated high school. Read more.