It’s Never Too Late To Get Help For You And Your Family

Kimberly, an energetic and kind young girl, had lost her motivation to do well in school. She began to fail her classes and was being disrespectful to her mother, Sandra. Sandra had difficulty understanding her daughter and the two had problems communicating. It was tough for Kimberly, since her father lived in Mexico, but Sandra could still not understand what she felt was Kimberly’s inappropriate behavior. Sandra was worried that Kimberly was using drugs. During this tumultuous time, Sandra sought help from the Hollenbeck PAL (HPAL) program.

Sandra and Kimberly participated in HPAL’s 12 week Get It Straight classes that focus on communication, discipline, and drug and gang education. Once they started the classes, mother and daughter learned many techniques that helped them improve their ability to communicate. Sandra explains, “Kimberly learned techniques such as breathing exercises that helped her reduce her anger and she learned skills to better communicate with me.” Sandra added, “It truly helped both of us, specifically me by teaching me to take time to listen to my daughter and provide her more individual attention, which improved our relationship and communication”.

HPAL strives to change the lives of families by providing guidance and resources. As Kimberly states “If I was able to go to the program and tell my story…and be able to give them advice, I would.” The real reward is hearing families share their transformation. Like many teens, who have a tough time adjusting to life, Kimberly’s dedication and commitment to the program was evident as she states, “But at the end of the day, I thank you [Jessica, Case Manager] for helping me and my mom and making me become a better person.” Sandra happily reports that Kimberly has improved her grades, communicates well, and is no longer using drugs.