November 2024 Youth Spotlight - Jaya

Jaya has experienced homelessness on and off since the 2nd grade. After her father passed away last year, she faced even greater uncertainty and set up shelter for herself in a car parked in her aunt’s driveway. But this solution was temporary-- staying inside her aunt’s home would never be an option due to the presence of domestic violence.

A family member who had previously accessed our services referred Jaya to Urban Peak. Despite the challenges of housing insecurity and personal loss, Jaya achieved an incredible milestone this fall: she graduated from high school! Now, her hard work and determination continues to open doors. She was recently accepted into the Community College of Denver and will soon embark on a new chapter as a full-time college student. And with the support of Urban Peak’s housing team, she is moving into her very first apartment!

Jaya has long-term plans too. She plans to transfer to Metropolitan State University of Denver to complete a degree in early childhood education and fulfill her dream of becoming a first-grade teacher. Reflecting on her experience, Jaya shared: “If you are a young person and you need help, just ask, and you will get it from Urban Peak.” Always. 😊