Deion's Story

When I was staying at a homeless shelter, I just felt left behind. I didn’t have a job, I didn't have anything my peers have, I was jealous. 

I got a job when I was there, but it was only 8 hours a week unloading trucks. That’s when my case manager told me about Wildflyer Coffee. To be honest, I was hesitant at first and I didn’t think it was a good idea, because I was ashamed. I looked around at the people who were in better situations and I felt like an animal. A lot of it had to do with the insecurities I was facing in my situation. 

After I finally applied to the training program, I met with the program manager and the employees, and everyone was really supportive. The biggest impact on me has been the culture at Wildflyer. If you need education, they’ll help. If you need furniture, they’ll find it for you. If there’s something they can help you out with, they will. I love that they support us before, during and after the training program.

I’ve really enjoyed learning how to be a barista. I feel well-trained and if I want to stay in the coffee world, I can with the skills they were able to provide for me. 

Wildflyer has been the best job I’ve had so far and everyone is really kind. I don’t feel the insecurities I used to. Recently I was able to move out of the shelter I was staying in and was fortunate enough to find housing. It’s work, but I did it. I’m thankful to Wildflyer for being the positive experience I needed in my life.