Meet Sadie

My name is Sadie, and I am extremely proud to be a part of Together We Bake! I was introduced to the program through N Street Village.

At this time in my life, I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity presented to me. The staff were welcoming and seemed to really care about my future. I first entered the program in September. However, a hard blow came my way. My world came crashing down the moment I found out that my son was deceased by way of suicide. Everything that I had faith in came to a sudden halt. I decided to withdraw from Together We Bake so I could come to grips with what had just occurred. I took this time to handle my affairs. There were a lot of times that I wished Liz, Lucy and Stephanie could've been there with me physically. I had come to trust them, and I felt safe with their kind words of encouragement and support. 

I took a long look at what my life had become and decided to continue my journey with Together We Bake [in the Winter program]. Although my family and friends were present during my time of need, something was always missing.

I had come to realize that I needed to be a part of something. Together We Bake is a sorority of women who have hit their rock bottom but are determined to be successful in love and life. I have been taught that no matter your circumstances, you're always able to rise above the negative labels that society has placed on us.

I've experienced some hardships over the past few years, but with my higher power and friends who have really impacted my life, I am still STANDING. I choose to believe that Together We Bake was my saving grace. I am surrounded by strong-minded, determined and beautiful women. Their energy and passion rubs off on me. I feel so great and accomplished at the end of each day.  

I must say that my most memorable moment was a time when Liz and I got real deep about life and what to do in hard situations. She inspired me to continue my fight for a better life. All the staff bring their experiences, strength and hope to relate with the participants. I will always remember the warmth I felt when I first entered the doors of Together We Bake.

P.S. I can't forget my biggest cheerleader and supporter James Darnell Kirkland –– "Rest in Eternal Peace"

*Note: This transcript has been edited for clarity.