Nikki was an educated therapist and entrepreneur thriving in her home state. While holding a master’s degree in social work, she was on the brink of launching her own business and writing a novel about her experiences and journey of trauma and healing. However, her aspirations and progress were abruptly paused when Nikki fell in love and ended up in a controlling and abusive relationship. For years Nikki struggled to understand how “she” could end up in an abusive relationship even though she was educated and had worked with individuals who had been in abusive relationships. Scared to be judged or not believed, Nikki kept her pain behind closed doors. The abuse got so dangerous it became life-threatening causing Nikki to make the tough decision of leaving her home and state to find safety.
Finding herself in California, Nikki urgently needed shelter and reached out to multiple organizations across the state but could not get connected to any service or support. When she called Human Options, she was provided with immediate support, securing a hotel room for a night before transitioning into our residential programs and entering the shelter the following day. When she first came to Human Options, she could not meet her basic needs like getting food, and navigating health insurance, let alone familiarizing herself with a new environment.
Since joining the program, Nikki has experienced significant growth and regained her sense of security. Through the support and resources provided to her, Nikki now feels empowered and proactive as she continues her journey. Nikki has stabilized her immediate needs and is now focused on finding employment and continuing her healing journey. Just last month, Nikki launched her media website, highlighting stories of women’s empowerment in communities of color.
