Carlos's Story
Carlos’ parents didn't know how to work through their own trauma and it came out as abuse. When he left for college, he went through a major depression. He didn't go to class, got kicked out, and had to move back home. But home was still toxic. He found Covenant House online and walked eight miles from South Central, Los Angeles to the Covenant House in Hollywood.
At Covenant House, Carlos found structure and support and learned to talk about his depression without shame. He learned that mental illness, like any other illness, can be treated. Carlos’ eyes and heart were opened up to so many different experiences. Everything fed his hope. Inspiring talks, staff who really cared, and the connection he had with other residents at Covenant House, who he talked to about his past, present, and his dreams. Carlos’ dream wasn't to be a superstar, he just wanted to lead a regular life.
The job readiness counselor at Covenant House saw Carlos’ skills and passion with computer graphics and got him an interview with an animation and graphic design company. He got a job in IT helping animators with their computers. He learned so much and felt a real sense of pride and accomplishment.
Twenty years later, he is still a part of the animation industry. It is a corporate partnership with his company that led him to reconnect with Covenant House. He said, “I remembered how that whole community, the kids, the staff, the volunteers and supporters helped me transform my life. I was worried about my family at the time, but leaving home is what moved my mom to get help for her mental illness. Mental health is now an open conversation in my family. We all get along well now and I'm glad to have them in my life as I raise my own family.”