ANDRE'S STORY: "Being in Ignite did more than just give me a home... they filled me with hope."

Andre (name changed to uphold client confidentiality) first came to Ignite in 2018 after couch surfing and living in various emergency shelters. 

“The main problems I faced in that year were family issues, employment issues, and homelessness. I believed myself to be in a truly dire and irreversible situation but then I came upon Ignite and they lit the way for me at this special organization.”  

Andre entered into the Ignite’s Supportive Community-Based Housing. During this time he worked with his case managers to identify personal and professional goals and supports needed to achieve them, all outlined in an Individualized Action Plan. Andre earned his GED while maintaining employment. He participated in the program’s Savings Plan, through which youth earn an additional 2% to match any funds they save.   

 “[Ignite staff] welcomed me in, made me feel safe, and surrounded me with people I could relate to so I wouldn’t feel alone... they even saw fit to bless me with my first apartment. They took me shopping for everything I needed and moved me in and to have a place I could call my own filled me with unimageable joy.    

Upon turning 24, Andre transitioned to Ignite’s privately-funded Independent Living Program, where he continued to work toward his dream of starting his own IT/security firm. He earned an armed security license and serves as Head of Security at Lurie’s Children’s Hospital.   

Over the summer, Andre turned 26, exited Ignite, and moved into his first market-rate apartment with a roommate he met through Ignite. He plans to obtain his bachelor’s degree in IT using a tuition support program available at Lurie’s. Andre will continue to receive case management and services for six months post-program exit, and he will always be a part of the Ignite family.  

 “Being in Ignite did more than just give me a home... they motivated me, filled me with hope, and helped me gain a sense of determination. It was with Ignite that I had the courage to return to school and get my GED which is something I am extremely proud of till this day.”