Finding Family Again: Noah's Story

At Dismas House, every story is unique — but they all carry something powerful: the courage to begin again. For Noah, that journey started not with stability, but with heartbreak.

“I was in a pit of depression, grieving the loss of all my relationships back home.”

Like so many who walk through the doors of Dismas, Noah was searching for more than just a place to stay. He was looking for restoration — for people who wouldn’t judge him for where he’d been, but who would believe in where he could go.

“I was looking for a fresh start where I could find a new support system that actually wanted to see me succeed.”

That’s where Dismas becomes more than a house — it becomes a family. For Noah, it’s the family aspect that stands out most. The judgment-free environment, the uplifting encouragement, and the genuine care from residents and staff have helped create a space where healing feels possible.

Through that support, Noah has uncovered strengths within himself he didn’t fully recognize before. One of those is his strong work ethic — a quality that’s carried him through new milestones since arriving at Dismas.

“Since coming to Dismas, I have gotten my driver’s license, a reliable car, and a great-paying part-time job.”

But it’s not just about work and stability. Noah has also made meaningful personal strides: reconnecting with family he once thought he had lost, and finding healing in relationships that were strained by past mistakes.

In small but powerful ways, he’s also made intentional choices that reflect his commitment to growth — like his recent decision to give up caffeine for two months, recognizing how even seemingly small habits can affect his health and well-being.

“Now that I haven’t had any for a while, I feel great.”

Through it all, Noah names the people who’ve walked alongside him: CeCe, Jose, and Alicia Wells — mentors he trusts and leans on when challenges arise.

For Noah, community is no longer just a word — it’s a lived experience.

“Community means a group of people with commonality of wanting to succeed with those around them. They are not in any one specific location, but they support and care about each other.”

And when asked what advice he’d give to anyone new walking into Dismas, Noah’s answer reflects wisdom gained through hard-earned experience:

“Don’t spend any money unless it’s an emergency. It’s difficult to get a job after incarceration, and even harder to develop the self-discipline to keep up with bills. Focus first on stability — a reliable vehicle, stable housing, an emergency fund — the rest will come.”

At Dismas House, stories like Noah’s remind us that restoration isn’t instant — but it is possible. Through honest work, mutual accountability, and shared support, residents like Noah are building lives rooted in hope, responsibility, and healthy relationships.

This is the Dismas Way.

Our resident Noah playing the guitar beautifully!