Jace’s Story
Jace found himself standing at the entrance of Mel Trotter Ministries, desperately seeking warmth as winter approached. He sought refuge after his parents, frequent alcohol abusers, unexpectedly kicked him out. With a chaotic home life and fractured family ties, Jace had no alternatives and refused to endure another night beneath a bridge—that is when his brother dropped him off at the Mission. Once there, Jace wasted no time, enrolling in the program, meeting with a case manager who listened to his story, and beginning his journey toward stability, hoping for a new start.
Jace participated in the Momentum program, a four-week training in essential life skills needed to acquire and sustain employment. “I found it really motivating, the way the class was set up and everything. They try to change your mindset, trying to get you to think of positive things,” Jace said. He learned valuable skills like resume building, interviewing techniques, and financial literacy. His case manager, who genuinely cared about his progress, provided encouragement and guidance. While in the program, he volunteered in the kitchen, working 15 to 20 hours a week until he secured a job. “My case manager helped me find a job. They set up an interview and everything,” Jace shared.
After graduating from Momentum, Jace started his job working the first shift which he prefers and moved into a transitional house owned and operated by MTM—just in time for Christmas. His experience at the house was initially challenging but soon became a haven. Then he joined Next Step, a division of Mel Trotter Ministries that focuses on teaching technical skills in woodworking and manufacturing. Jace thrived in the program, gaining not just technical skills, but also a sense of purpose and direction.
With more tools in his toolbelt, Jace is focused on his future. He shared his dreams with us: “Definitely college… and I have enough saved up to purchase a car now. I still need to get a license, but once all that is done, I can possibly find my own place to live.”
Reflecting on his journey, Jace expressed gratitude for Mel Trotter’s support. “Without Mel Trotter, I’d maybe be at another shelter or still living under that bridge. This place helps a lot of people who are willing to try life. There are people that Mel Trotter uplifts, like it has for me,” he expressed.
Jace’s case manager, like a proud mentor, celebrates his achievements, stating, “It has been quite a journey for him, but he is a mature, persistent young man…super proud of him.” Throughout his time at Mel Trotter, Jace’s motto was “Just never give up. That’s the main thing. Never give up.” Your generous support has gifted Jace a future filled with promise, a roof over his head, college courses to enrich his mind, and a job that provides a livable wage—thank you for being part of his Christmas miracle.
