Every day at Madi’s House, young adults walk through our doors looking for a place to feel understood, to belong, and to heal. Thanks to supporters like you, that’s exactly what they find.
This month, we’re honored to share the story of Hannah N., a member whose journey reminds us that healing happens in safe spaces that offer opportunities to fill your time, find your people, and feel hope.
BEFORE COMING TO MADI'S HOUSE, WHAT WERE YOU HOPING TO FIND OR FEEL? WHAT CHALLENGES WERE YOU NAVIGATING THAT MADE YOU SEEK SUPPORT OR COMMUNITY?
Before I started coming here, I was depressed and stayed in my house pretty much all day, every day. I was looking for a safe place where I could connect with people like me so I wouldn’t feel so alone. My therapist suggested I come here, and now I come almost every day.
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION OF MADI'S HOUSE?
When you come through these doors, there’s always someone who says “Hi” and asks if you need anything. I needed a safe place to go where I could connect with people who understand me. I’ve met great people, I’ve had new experiences, I have a bestie now. I grew up in foster care, and this has become my family.
I also was shocked by how much they offer without charging anything. I’m on disability, and there are a lot of opportunities offered to me as a member that I would not be able to access cost-wise. For example, I’d never been to Perfect North Slopes, but I was able to go. I’ve never been to a hockey game, but I’m going later this month.
WHAT POSITIVE CHANGES HAVE YOU NOTICED IN YOURSELF SINCE COMING HERE?
I isolate less, and I’ve become more social – those are big things for me. I’m also trying new things.
When I’m sad at home, I look at the pictures from my outings with the people I’ve met here, and I know happiness is possible.
WHICH ACTIVITIES OR PROGRAMS HAVE BEEN MOST MEANINGFUL TO YOU?
The Open Hangout and the outings are most meaningful to me. This is a safe place to come, listen to music, be outside, watch a movie in the basement, or go to different places. I wish Madi’s House was open for longer hours because I would stay longer! I’ve met so many lovely people here, and I feel like this is home.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO IS STRUGGLING AND THINKING ABOUT COMING TO MADI'S HOUSE?
Come – don’t be scared and show up as you are.
On a good day or a bad day, people here love you as you are. There’s always someone to ask how you’re doing, to laugh with you or to cry with you. You won’t regret coming here.
WHAT DO YOU WANT DONORS TO KNOW ABOUT THE IMPACT THE IMPACT OF MADI'S HOUSE?
Thank you so much – that’s the big thing! I also want donors to know it’s your support that helps people like me keep going, and you help in more ways than you realize. I could stay home and be depressed, but now I have somewhere to go.