Children's Institute Helped Me Heal & My Family Thrive

Dear Children’s Institute,

My name is Tondalia and when I was a little girl, I always knew I wanted to help people. If telling my story about how Children’s Institute changed my life helps more parents get the support they need, I will have accomplished a lifelong dream.

I went through some really challenging times as a kid and my past traumas had created a lot of anger within me. After starting therapy at 11 years old, I went from a shut-down teen to someone who understood that it was okay to seek help, to release emotions and to express myself in healthier ways.

So when my daughter started struggling with substance use, I dedicated the next 17 years of my life to fighting for my four grandchildren and making sure they had the love and care they needed to heal. I reached out to my old therapist for help and she connected me to Children’s Institute.

When I first called Children’s Institute, it just so happened that a gentleman named Carl, who had helped my eldest grandson when he first went into foster care, answered the phone. I knew then that this was the right place for my family. All four grandchildren received services from Children’s Institute and so did I.

Children’s Institute is a safe place for me. From the receptionist at the front desk, my therapist to the staff linking me to additional resources such as transportation and utility bill payment assistance, the whole experience has put me at ease. All my life, I have been responsible for taking care of others. Children’s Institute was here to take care of me.

I now have the mental space to think about my future and how I would like to pursue a career where I can help other parents understand the power of therapy.

When my grandchildren first started counseling, they were closed up, like rose petals when you can’t see inside. Now they have blossomed into the young people they deserve to be because they have the resources they need to thrive. I’m proud of the progress we’ve all made and the opportunity to grow together.

Please consider giving a generous gift to Children’s Institute this holiday season, so that more families like mine can get the support they need to flourish.

Sincerely,

Tondalia Chandler