Elizabeth

by Lee Buchanan February 12, 2020

“I had a rough life growing up,” Elizabeth explains. She battled addiction for 20 years, did 4 prison terms and was arrested 63 times.

But, she's grateful to the people who believed in her and gave her a second (and third) chance. She entered a drug and alcohol treatment program, was sober for a year, and then started working as a drug and alcohol counselor for LGBT youth, where she reminded them that living on the streets is a choice.

After 7 years as a recovery counselor, Elizabeth stopped working because of health problems, but before she left her job, her supervisor told her that she was a good worker and had inspired many people. As she says, “I put my family through the mud…but when the lord takes me I want Him to take me clean and sober.”

Elizabeth’s family is proud that she's been clean for 10 years, and they love the fact that they always know where to find her: in her apartment at the Downtown Women’s Center. “I never forget where I came from,” she says, and mentions that she still goes to AA meetings to stay connected to the sober community.

At Would Works, Elizabeth has been sanding cutting boards and candle holders, and loves the respect that her teachers give to their students.

“Would Works has been a blessing...I get to pay rent and be a productive member of society…If they let me, I would love to come back to Would Works and do it again!"

Thank you, Elizabeth, for your work and your commitment to staying sober. We wish you the best on your journey.

Also in Our Artisans

Shirley

November 28, 2021

Shirley is the bedrock of the Would Works shop. She started as an Artisan in 2017 and in 2021 the Lead Artisan position was created to recognize her leadership on the shop floor. Shirley loves to sand and has a keen eye for detail, she also supports and guides new Artisans as they develop these skills.

David

November 28, 2021

In the last year, during COVID, David says his living situation became dire and he knew he needed help. He has always loved making things and working with his hands, so he Googled ‘woodworking’ and ‘homeless,” and learned about Would Works.

Javier

November 28, 2021

Prior to incarceration, Javier worked as a chef and ran his own business. But, he says, “I’m an ex-gang member and I’ve lived on and off the streets my whole life.” Javier’s gang affiliation has made it difficult to maintain stability, but at Would Works he shows up early to every workshop ready to work and learn.