In 2011, Florida teacher, Tracy Jiles, had traveled from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to Detroit, Michigan looking for housing and employment following layoff, foreclosure, divorce and the unexpected passing of her mother.  Tracy found  herself displaced with little money, little clothing and few options. After staying at two emergency shelters, she was referred to COTS.  Tracy entered COTS just in time for Christmas Eve, with only the clothes on her back.

 

It was not long after her arrival that Tracy began making daily trips to the Detroit Library, to apply for jobs online. Additionally, through volunteering and a cheerful disposition, Tracy began establishing rapports amongst COTS case workers, executive personnel and direct care staff. Eventually,Tracy's diligence in applying for work online, maintaining positive relationships within COTS and establishing her own small network of community support in neighboring Highland Park, paid off.

 

Tracy accepted a teaching position, which afforded her temporary work and housing as well. Over the last year, she has continued to build long-lasting relationships with her colleagues, students and parents. She is most excited about her future, seeking permanent employment, permanent housing, a church home and reconnecting within the community as well as with her sorority sisters. Tracy is just one example of how the combined efforts of dedicated organizations serving the community, like COTS, and personal resilience and individual tenacity result in success, time and time again.

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