Blog by Nikki

Hello my name is Nicole Yates. I am a 24-year-old young woman who values structure, stability, and family. I am the second oldest, a daughter and sister. I have the tendency to be OCD about structure in my life, but I stay optimistic and I have always been an out-going person who looks towards positivity in life. I am good with interacting with others, and I am a very helpful person. Whenever I get the chance to make a change in someone’s life I take it.

While I was serving my time in Hazelton, West Virginia, my social worker presented the opportunity of Together We Bake to me, but I never thought that I would actually be a part of the program. Coincidentally, I came across TWB for a second time because mentors Hanna, and Colida came to Reyndols and Associates Halfway House where I was staying after my release from jail, to perform a recruitment session. It sparked my interest and I was presented with the application and decided to take a chance and come to the program.

I like Together We Bake a lot. My favorite part of the program would have to be when we are in the kitchen. I’m the type of person that likes to handle things and get things done. It gives me hands-on experience with handling deadlines and finishing tasks on time, which has further helped me with preparation for a real job. I also love the House of Healing empowerment groups. It allows me to gain a bigger and better insight on other people and who I am as a person. I also learn valuable coping skills to better my self-sufficiency.

Life after Together We Bake looks promising. I am in the process of gaining employment and I aspire to have my own apartment and then go back to school. My dream job is to be a nurse, so getting established and working towards that goal keeps me fighting everyday and enthusiastic about my future.