Edward's Story

Thirteen years ago, Edward* was coming out of 30 years in prison and unsure what his next steps would look like. A Marine veteran, Edward had lived a life of service to his country when a driving accident kept him from being able to work. After that, Edward’s life went into a downward spiral that included bank robbery and drugs. “When you’re in prison,” says Edward, “time stands still. If you’re 30 when you go into prison and spend 30 years there, it seems like you’re still 30 when you get out, even though you’re 60. You don’t have reference for everything that has changed, and it can be overwhelming.” When a friend introduced him to the Permanent Supportive Housing apartment units at New Visions, Edward was filled with emotion at the thought of having his own place after being behind bars for so long. “New Visions saved my life, period,” says Edward. “They took me in and gave me a safe place to turn my life around.”

In addition to his crimes, Edward has also struggled from substance abuse. “I have what you’d call an addictive personality,” says Edward. But while he was at New Visions, his case manager, Stephanie, guided him to get the help he needed to change his trajectory. Edward doesn’t blame anyone for his past, saying “I did what I did and I had to deal with the consequences.” Edward is proud of himself for the things he’s overcome. “I had a hard time forgiving myself for putting my family through hell,” he says. But being in a supportive environment at New Visions helped him to forgive himself and restore relationships with his family.

At New Visions, Edward found the support he needed to believe in a better future for himself, and while a disability has kept him from full-time work, he’s been able to serve in various roles at New Visions including driving, working in the kitchen, and most recently helping to operate our Warming Center. “Working gives you purpose,” says Edward, “I love the work I’ve been able to do at New Visions.”

Through this work, Edward has been able to save up enough to purchase a motorcycle, and he makes no hesitation when asked what he’s passionate about. “When the weather cooperates, I ride motorcycle every day,” says Edward. “I’ll drive up the scenic route to Missouri Valley or just explore areas of the city. I’ll listen to music, feel the wind in my face. It’s freedom.” And freedom means a lot to a guy who’s spent 30 years behind bars. We’re grateful to have played a part in Edward’s story, and you can count on us to be his loudest cheerleaders as he cruises the open road, enjoying his newfound freedom. *Edward’s name has been changed to protect his privacy.

Our work with veterans like Edward is made possible in part through a grant from the Bob Woodruff Foundation. We're proud to be a part of the Bob Woodruff Foundation's #GotYour6 network. Our deep gratitude to the Foundation and Craig Newmark Philanthropies for this funding that supports service members, veterans, and their families and caregivers throughout their lifetime.