Life at the transition houses pt. 1

Joseph, student ‘22-’24, current Guys’ House resident

Since graduating from the Ranch, life’s definitely had its ups and downs. I tried a few different things, and not everything worked out how I thought it would. At times, it felt like I ended up right back where I started before going to the Ranch, which was frustrating. After a while, I started to notice I was slipping back into old habits and dealing with stuff I had never fully worked through. So instead of just letting it keep going, I decided to do something about it. I got a job, saved up some money, and made the decision to head back to California and go to the Guys’ House.

Coming back hasn’t been easy at all. There’s been some tough stuff I’ve had to face and work through, but at the same time, I can see how God has been looking out for me through it all. He’s provided for me in ways I didn’t expect and has surrounded me with an awesome community through my job at Crossroads Church, where I’ve also been attending on Sundays.

What’s next: Junior college or pursuing firefighting

Addy, student ‘23-’25, current Girls’ House resident

Being at the House is a great way to learn how to live independently and to continue to deepen your relationship with the Lord. It is also an opportunity for you to be an older sister to the Ranch students and support them in their journeys.

I’ve seen many of my prayers get answered in my time at the House. I prayed for a job, and although there were challenges along the way, I finally got a job at a local coffee shop as well as a childcare job at a church. I also do house cleaning for some (new) friends. After my first car got totaled from hitting a deer, the Lord provided me with another car. Even though I’ve had many hard days at work, I’m thankful for the friendships I have with my roommates and for their support.

As I prepare for college, I’m thankful for my time at the House to experience more of who God is and to build friendships that I know will last a lifetime.

What’s next: Studying nursing in the fall at Grand Canyon University