Evelyn Loidolt joined Circles of Support in March of 2004 as one of the very first members. After drug abuse caused her to lose her job in Little Falls, she was homeless for 11 months, then moved to Grand Rapids to complete a treatment program. Evelyn came to Circles hoping for a new start in life and to regain all that she had lost: a home, a good paying job, a reliable vehicle, and people she could trust and rely on.

Through the encouragement and support of her allies and the Circles community, Evelyn increased her beginning income by 81% overall, has reliable transportation, a decent and safe place to live, many people to call upon for help, and the confidence to conquer anything that gets in the way of her dreams. Evelyn recently celebrated three years of sobriety and has told her Circles story to the Grand Rapids community through more than 30 public speaking engagements. She is currently enrolled at ICC. Evelyn will soon begin her new role as an Ally to another Circles family in need.

"I may not have lots of money, but I'm richer than I ever was."
Allies in Evelyn's journey: Marureen Rosato, Dave Roerick, Jim Uzelac

In 1995, Renee Nash was on a positive life track with a promising future, soon to complete a Legal Assistant degree when a serious car accident changed her plans. Renee’ came to Circles in August of 2004. Now a single mom with two children, living paycheck to paycheck, deep in debt and losing hope. Self-esteem was an issue for Renee and living in survival mode made it difficult to see very far into the future and believe life could be something different.

Through the support and encouragement of her allies and the Circles community, Renee has increased her income by as much as 76%. She has developed positive relationships with financial institutions and has paid off more than $12,000 in past debts, and opened an IRA. This spring Renee graduated from ICC with her AA degree and AAS in Psychology. This summer she will complete her AAS in Legal Assistance. She is exploring options to continue her education towards Forensic Psychology. Renee will soon begin her new role as an Ally to another Circles family in need.

"I believe if someone has emotional, spiritual, social supports, they can do anything."
Allies in Renee's journey: Paula Frings, Dave Roerick, Cindy Brummer

Recently divorced and recovering from an abusive relationship, Roxanne Hanson was a single mom struggling to save her home from foreclosure, keep a vehicle in running condition and food on the table. She refused to give up. Roxanne joined Circles of Support in August 2005.

Through the support and encouragement of her allies and the Circles community she has obtained living wage employment increasing her beginning income by 95% and eliminating her dependency on county services. In addition, Roxanne is a foster parent for at risk youth. The friendships built through Circles have given Roxanne the confidence to take on leadership roles within the community including joining the board of the Advocates for Family Peace. Roxanne’s role modeling has been an inspiration to many in the Circles community. As our Circles cook, she taught many the importance of slow food, through her passion for food design and preparation. Although Roxanne is ready to take on the role of an Ally, she will be relocating and getting remarried instead!

"Respect yourself, believe in yourself and reach out to others in need. It lifts you up along with those you are showing the love and concern to"
Allies in Roxanne's journey: Lou Ellen Gilbertson, Cathe McDonald, Sula Lane