Juan, STEP Graduate

Juan’s journey with United Against Poverty Orlando began at one of the lowest points in his life. Nearly a decade after moving to the United States from Venezuela, he had worked hard to build a future, but the loss of his grandmother sent him into a deep spiral of grief. In that darkness, Juan struggled with addiction, losing everything he had worked for: his job, his home, access to food, and even his relationships.

By the time he walked through UP Orlando’s doors in 2024, Juan had just $20 to his name and no clear path forward.

That day changed everything.

When Juan discovered the Member Share Grocery Program, he was overwhelmed. For the first time in a long time, he stood in front of shelves filled with fresh produce and nutritious food he could actually afford. In that moment, he felt something he hadn’t felt in years – relief, dignity, and a renewed sense of hope.

With support from the Crisis Navigation Center, Juan began to stabilize. Determined to rebuild his life, he enrolled in the Success Training Employment Program (STEP), where his resilience quickly became evident. Though his journey wasn’t easy, Juan kept showing up—for himself and his future.

He went on to volunteer 784 hours, becoming a familiar face in the grocery program. More than staying busy, he found something deeper: community. Juan often shares that UP Orlando became a “beautiful family” to him—a place where he could both receive support and give it back.

Today, Juan works two jobs and continues to inspire others, proving that transformation is always possible.