Stories
We are all a story — the sum of our experiences. Reading other people’s stories provides an opportunity to reflect on our own situations. A moment of external observation — acknowledging what someone else has been through — enables us to place ourselves and recognize value in what is easily taken for granted. All stories are remarkable in their unique way, but some stories penetrate deeper because they reveal the uncomfortable truth that we are often more fortunate than we realize. These are the inspirational stories.
Curtis
Life after the service can be a maelstrom of grit and white knuckles. Curtis knows that well—it's a grind where he has to keep pushing, even when it feels like the world’s stacked against him. Originally from Indiana, Curtis came to St. Louis with almost nothing to his name. But he wasn’t about to let that stop him.
Rizia — Painting a Brighter Future for Herself
Rizia’s journey began with dreams of art and adventure, but life’s challenges brought her to a breaking point she never expected. Discover how St. Patrick Center’s Women’s Night Program became the foundation for her remarkable transformation — and how creativity, community, and coffee helped her rebuild her life, one step at a time.