CALVIN’S STORY
When the system fails, The Village must step in
At just 16 years old, Calvin found himself entangled in the juvenile legal system, arrested on an armed robbery charge. But his struggles didn’t begin there. For months, Calvin had difficulty meeting his court requirements—not because he didn’t want to comply, but because his family was experiencing homelessness.
Moving from one relative’s home to another, Calvin faced constant instability. Every time his family relocated, he had to figure out a new way to get to school and court. Eventually, they were forced to squat in an abandoned building without electricity or running water. Embarrassed by his circumstances, Calvin stopped attending school altogether.
The reality is, the system failed Calvin long before his arrest. Issues like poverty, unlivable wages, job insecurity, and a severe lack of affordable housing are at the root of family instability. Without addressing these systemic challenges, children like Calvin remain at risk.
When The Village helps
That’s when Lana, Calvin’s social worker at Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights (LCCR), stepped in. She knew New Orleans had limited resources for unhoused families, but she didn’t let that stop her. She quickly found a shelter for Calvin’s family and even used her own car to help them move in.
With this newfound stability, Calvin’s mother was finally able to search for a job. In just a few weeks, she secured steady employment, allowing them to get on a Section 8 housing waitlist. Miraculously, an apartment became available in record time, and Lana was there once again—helping them move into their new home.
The Foundation for a fresh start and a brighter future
With stable housing, Lana focused on Calvin’s education. She enrolled him in a new school within walking distance, eliminating transportation barriers. His attendance improved immediately.
With these crucial pieces in place—a home, an education, and the support of someone who believed in him—Calvin’s judge recognized his progress and closed his case. No more court dates. No more legal burdens. Just a young man getting the chance to be a kid again.
The Impact of The Village
Calvin’s story is proof that when The Village steps in, change happens. Lana saw Calvin not as a statistic, but as a kid capable of growth and success. Through her dedication, she helped him overcome systemic barriers, giving him the foundation to rebuild his future.
This is what community looks like. This is what real change means.
OUR COMMUNITY PLEDGE
Our community pledge
By signing this community pledge, I am affirming my commitment and societal responsibility to New Orleans youth. I pledge to use my role(s) in The Village to protect our youth and serve as an advocate for their grace, healing and investment, while encouraging others in our community to do the same.
