Papa Meech: look like you’re built for this.’ I said, ‘I’m tired of this, carrying my bags, dumping everything out of my bags, getting checked in…’ And Will said, ‘I’ve got a guy you can call.’” Demetrius met Rodney and moved
A s House Manager, Demetrius lives on property with the clients, keeping the property up to date, ensuring they have access to food and laundry, and that the property is clean and well-maintained, and he listens to any needs. But, he explains, more than anything, a house manager is a motivator. “I help people get up, get out, and try to do something for themselves. If Rodney’s not
in two days later. “I had to go through the drug program just because it was part of the rules.” As soon as he settled in, he got a good job at O&A manufacturing. He started saving money—eventually enough money to move out. He was all ready to put down a deposit for his own place when Rodney approached him. “Rodney
said I was a good leader and a good role model.
around, I’m there if they need somebody physical to talk to,
He said everybody that talked to him about me always gave him good, positive words, and he said he felt like I could be part of his program, helping people out.” He was tempted to leave— he’d looked forward to living
to calm them down, or bring them up—if they are having a hard time.” Though Demetrius isn’t a professional therapist, he is a friend who’s been there, without shelter, and that means a lot to the clients. Not long ago, Demetrius was
independently. But he thought about how they had helped him through a rough time. And he decided to give back to the community. So, he stayed and is there now, for the residents, 24/7. “I get along with everybody and . . . I always try
having a difficult time and didn’t know where to go. He left it to fate; “You spin the globe, and your finger lands—that's where you go.” And so, he came to Madison. “I was homeless when I first got here.” It was August, and it was hot. “I was getting fed up moving from the warming shelter to the day shelter, and then this guy named Will said, ‘You look bad, man. You don’t
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