Daphne’s Story

Daphne is a vibrant, intelligent young lady who landed in the detention center jaded, skeptical, and bitter.

Daphne’s mom abandoned her at the age of 2.  Her dad repeatedly reminded her she would be nothing, just like her mom.  Daphne worked hard in school and found every job she could to prove herself and yet her dad was not satisfied and continued to reject her.  Eventually Daphne took to the streets and ended up pregnant.  She worked and continued in school but eventually ended up in trouble with the law and in the Des Moines youth detention center with her daughter in foster care.

One day Daphne was attending the required group led by a SOY volunteer; once again she found herself thinking, “Blah, blah.  Whatever.  You are here since you are getting paid.”  The weeks went  by and the volunteer continued to come.  Soon the volunteer was asking Daphne about herself and what she was good at.  Next thing Daphne knew she was writing poetry again and reciting it in front of the whole group.  Soon even she believed that there was a purpose for her life and she could attain what she aspires to.

Daphne left the Detention Center and went to a facility for moms with babies.  This is where SOY matched her with a mentor; the same volunteer who spoke to her before.  Daphne started college and maintained Deans List grades.  She got her baby back and took parenting classes.  She refused an offer from friends to go to a party atmosphere, telling them “I am not ready for that yet.”  Most important of all Daphne is discussing faith with her SOY mentor in hopes of growing in Christ!

Thank you to all our volunteers for making a difference!