Interview conducted and written by Lauren Waters, Donor Services Manager.
Within minutes of meeting Terrance, I felt like I was catching up with a life-long friend. He’s open, easy to talk to, and genuinely kind — the kind of person who puts you at ease right away. His big, bright smile is impossible to miss. It reflects the positive outlook he’s chosen to hold onto through every setback, determined not to give up — especially for his daughter.
Finding Stability
Terrance was born in Chicago and came up to Green Bay as a teenager. Along the way, he experienced foster care and the challenges of finding his place in the world. Amidst hardship, he found guidance and support from his loving grandmother and kind foster parents, who taught him a strong work ethic, patience, and resilience.
Life took some difficult turns in early adulthood, and Terrance found himself without stable housing.
“I had nowhere to go. I didn’t really have family left at that point, so I was on the streets for a while.”
He worked temporary jobs when he could and sometimes slept in his car. But there was a turning point. Mentors like Clayton Abts, Director of Case Management at St. John’s Ministries, helped him find stability and keep moving forward.
“They gave me somewhere to stay when I didn’t have anywhere to live. They provided clothes when I needed them and programs to help me better my life. Clayton helped me get jobs and was always honest with me. Even when I left the shelter, I was able to come back and speak with him and keep him in tune with my journey. That helped me stay strong and keep moving toward my goals.”
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
Terrance’s journey has had its hurdles. More than 20 years ago, as a young man, he made errors that resulted in a criminal record. However, he hasn’t let his past define his future.
“I’ve learned that I’ve slipped up, but I didn’t fall. Even if I failed, I kept trying. I’ve learned I’m willing to work hard for what I believe in, which is living rightly.”
When asked what he would say to someone currently experiencing homelessness, Terrance’s advice is grounded in faith, perseverance, and self-belief.
“Stay strong and keep God first. Believe and achieve. Be willing to accept help. Things won’t always be easy, but don’t give up. And always keep love in your heart.” — Terrance
Terrance is now in stable housing and actively involved in his daughter’s life. He speaks with the kind of hard-won peace that only comes from doing the work. We are honored to have walked alongside him during one of the most important chapters of his life.
