How Naomi’s supportive housing journey shaped her future
The following speech was presented by former Beacon resident Naomi at Lee Blons’ retirement party. It has been rewritten and published with her permission.
My name is Naomi, and I am a former Beacon resident. I am from Edina, and graduated in 2012. Shortly after graduating, I became homeless midway through my second semester of college. After a year and some months of having no housing, I moved into Nicollet Square in Minneapolis.
Before moving in, I was shelter minded and didn’t think anyone gave a single care about my siblings and my own displacement. After shooting and missing for housing so many times over the year, I asked my friends for help. My high school mentor told me about Oasis, a drop in center for youth experiencing homelessness. They got me connected with Beacon.
Before long, I had my own place to stay. Beacon dramatically impacted my life. It was the first stepping stone to having housing after having nowhere to live.
The best part about living in a Beacon home was the genuine love and care from everyone who supported me. I had many resources such as the housing manager, case workers, font desk staff, and other residents.
The front desk staff was essential to our safety and sanity at Nicollet Square. There were times were I woke up from night terrors, but could go down to the staff at two or three in the morning to talk with them. Knowing someone was there for me 24/7 was God sent.
Once I settled in my home at Nicollet Square, I met Lee Blons. She reached out asking if I would be interested in telling my story to help fundraise to see that others got the blessing I had. Without hesitation, I agreed and planned to meet with her.
Initially when I met her, my mind was on guard and mistrusting.
“Oh great,” I thought. “Another older white woman coming in to save the day.”
But shortly after, her actions proved me wrong in the best way.
My first impression of Lee was her style for sure. She dressed professionally, but not too professional to where I was uncomfortable. She furthered this by remaining humble, present, and attentive. I felt as if I was her equal, regardless of the obvious divide. She instilled perseverance in me allotting me a tenacious attitude. Showing me that there is an opportunity for me to never give up and never back down.
When I was backstage at a convention center speaking, I told Lee I felt nervous. She reassured me that things were going to be okay. She hugged me and let me know this was for a good purpose. However things came out, she let me know it was meant to be.
I’ve taken this moment and brought it with me through my journey of sobriety. Whenever I am feeling down, low, or when I am lacking confidence in my ability to offer myself the love I deserve, I remember this moment fondly. It reminds me that all of this is for the greater good and this nervousness I feel is but growing pains.
Beacon offered me a place to lay my head and an atmosphere to feel safe. Having that as my first place to live was a key component of my growth.
Not many people know this, but having a place to call your own after such uncertainty helps to get your dignity back. Dignity is essential. Having a home base is what keeps it solid. Having a foundation, one offered to me by Beacon, helped me to remain sane. Having my own bathroom, bedroom, and a place to cook meals, made me feel independent and made me feel like an integral member of society.
One thing I want Lee to know and remember is that if not for her and Beacon, I wouldn’t have gotten my ACL surgery with a place to recover. As well as going back to school for massage, making good job decisions, and taking care of my mental health.
Lee, just know that your legacy lives on. The torch may be handed off but the flame isn’t out, nor will it be anytime soon. You’ve inspired the next generation to stand tall and continue what you started.
May you enjoy the fruits of your labor and rest well at night knowing you did this shit! Congratulations on your retirement – I wish you the best.
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