Audrey’s Return: A Moment of Joy, Strength, and Community

Today was a special day at Dreams Work—Audrey returned.

Audrey gave birth to her son, Luca, on March 20th—the same day as our Vision Casting Luncheon. Her original plan was to work as many hours as possible before his arrival, hoping to stay on track with graduation requirements. Although Luca came early, Audrey had already accumulated 40 hours—double the expected minimum of 20 at this time of her birth. Her determination was unwavering.

On March 21st, just one day after giving birth, Audrey reached out to ask what she could do to stay on track. I reminded her to first take time to heal and bond with Luca. Still, she remained connected, attending sessions via Zoom and later taking on a job training alumni project earlier this month. Audrey is now on track to graduate and has pursued the program requirements with diligence. She’s also been selected as the Cohort 6 Graduation Speaker—she will be a powerful example of our mission.

While she’s accomplished so much, one of the hardest parts of the past few weeks has been the isolation. Dreams Work is more than a program for the moms—it’s their safe place, their source of affirmation and support. Today, Audrey came home!

The moment she arrived, the team met her in the parking lot. She saw us and ran toward us, smiling - it was a tear-filled reunion. The life coaches, table coaches, and leadership team were all waiting to greet her. Inside, the other moms were in class, learning about credit repair. As soon as they saw her, joy filled the room—they ran to her. It was spontaneous, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

Amy Betts welcomed the reunion with grace, allowing space for this beautiful moment of reconnection. It reminded all of us why we do this work—why community matters. From the time I joined the team, I loved hearing "We are a farmerly—Once a member, always a member. This has been carried into the values of Dreams Work. The moms see it and feel it.

Before Audrey left, she looked around and said, “I needed this—all of it.”

Audrey’s coach, Gayle, was thoughtfully chosen. Knowing Audrey’s story—her lack of maternal guidance and secure connection growing up—I paired her with someone who could offer both warmth and wisdom. Gayle, retired, and seasoned social worker, grandparent, and mentor, has been exactly who Audrey needed. She offers mature guidance, while honoring the guidelines set within the team's code of conduct. 

Sig hasn't wavered in meeting with Audrey to prevent her from getting discouraged while waiting to return. Kim and I oversee the job training she does. We have helped her keep her eye on the finish line, ensuring that the work she does fits the Dreams Work SMART model. It has come together nicely.

Audrey’s success is a reflection of what happens when every piece of our support system works together. Today was more than a return—it was a reminder that when women feel safe, seen, and supported, transformation follows.

I am so grateful to be a part of an organization that builds spaces where moms feel the gift of being home.

Thank you for the ways you support Dreams Work!