Meet Erika and Emiliano

Erika’s journey is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her family.

After experiencing domestic violence in Los Angeles County, Erika made the incredibly difficult decision to leave everything behind and start over in Orange County. It meant walking away from stability—including a full-time nonprofit role she had dedicated over six years to—but for Erika, the safety and well-being of her children came first.

Even in the face of uncertainty, she remained focused on rebuilding. In November 2025, Erika enrolled at Working Wardrobes and began actively engaging in services, while also partnering with organizations like Families Forward. Step by step, she worked toward creating a new foundation for herself and her children. Today, that effort has led to permanent affordable housing—providing the stability and security her family deserves.

At the same time, Erika has been rebuilding her professional path. She recently received a job offer with Project Kinship as a Restorative Practices Intervention (RPI) Specialist—a role that not only aligns with her experience, but also reflects her passion for supporting others navigating their own challenges. It’s a powerful full-circle moment, turning lived experience into purpose.

The impact of Erika’s determination extends beyond her own journey. Her son, Emiliano, a recent high school graduate, also stepped into opportunity by enrolling in Working Wardrobes’ young adult program. Through the Work Experience Program at The Hanger in Costa Mesa, he began building skills and confidence. He recently earned his guard card, a state-issued certification that allows him to work in security roles, and is now working part-time in event security with Allied Universal while continuing his work at the store.

Together, Erika and Emiliano are building a future rooted in stability, growth, and possibility. What began as a difficult and uncertain transition has become a pathway forward—one defined by strength, support, and new opportunity.

Erika’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when resilience meets the right support at the right time.