Randall Gets His Spark Back Through Treatment, Stable Housing and Support Services

It is always a joy to share the significant progress of a client that we have served over a long period of time. It is so inspiring for our staff to know that the work they do is significant in the lives of others.

Randall was a client a few years ago in the former Pioneer Center North (PCN) residential treatment program. He had struggled with substance abuse for years and really engaged in the treatment program. From the outset, he faced low self-esteem and a lack of self-worth, often using humor as a coping mechanism. Despite facing many challenges and a few initial setbacks, Randall successfully completed the treatment program.

Stefanie Carranza, current Foundational Community Supports (FCS) supportive housing specialist, said, “Randall and I initially crossed paths at PCN, where I served as his case manager. We worked together to help him transition back into the community by encouraging reengagement with support groups and outpatient clinics, reconnecting with family and community, and working with him to establish employment or educational pursuits.”

Randall shared, “During my time at PCN I learned valuable lessons about reexamining my life, what was important and most importantly how to care about myself. It really helped me find my spark to truly live.”  

When PCN closed, Stefanie moved into working as a supportive housing specialist for the FCS program. In addition to our own housing and employment services, we also offer support in these areas for anyone who is Medicaid-eligible through FCS. The program is a part of our Community Integrations division.

Randall stated, “It means a lot to work with Stefanie again. She has been there to encourage and guide me in the right direction - especially when struggling to stay my course. I just want to say thanks to Stefanie, I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.” 

Stefanie said, “Upon my employment transition to FCS, Randall was still residing in the transitional housing living situation I had arranged for him after he completed his treatment program at PCN. It was so great to reconnect with him and have the opportunity to assist him in my new supportive housing role.” Stefanie continued, “Since then, we have collaborated to secure permanent and stable housing for him in downtown Bellingham, marking a year of permanent housing stability. He has also passed two years of sobriety which is such a fantastic achievement.” 

FCS supportive housing specialists work with individuals experiencing barriers to housing stability with verified risk factors such as being homeless, experiencing unstable housing, facing barriers to independent living, or living with maximum independence in community-integrated housing. They also can provide clients with support in obtaining community services such as healthcare, social services, resources, employment training, and recovery education and support.

Randall is nearing graduation from Whatcom County Recovery Court and we are all proud of him. He has demonstrated his commitment to living a clean and sober lifestyle and staying on track with his recovery journey. During this time, Randall also reached out and reconnected with family and that has helped him personally and built up his support group. 

Recently, Randall made the decision to reignite his passion for automobiles and the car culture. He has embarked on an entrepreneurial journey as an upholsterer and he is refining his car interior skills and building car connections. Randall concluded, “I’m really excited to see where my journey goes. Hopefully, I can reopen an upholstery shop and continue to contribute to the community in a positive way.”