Carmen J. Angelandretti

Carmen lived in Maryland and Virginia before coming to California. Not able to find permanent work in either state, Carmen was forced in and out homelessness. In Virginia, she was diagnosed with a mental illness and put on medication. She lived in several Bay Area shelters before reaching the South County Homeless Project. “The dark cloud hovering over my head disappeared.” Carmen said. “I was able to look for housing at my own pace.”

Carmen’s desire to make a difference in the mental health community led her to play a key role in the organization and planning of the first ever Alameda County Consumer Conference. Carmen partnered with Gigi Crowder from Alameda County Behavioral Health Care Services Agency, BOSS Executive Director boona cheema, and BOSS Health Director Phyllis Sakahara to present a workshop on the importance of consumer inclusion on the policy level.

After successfully completing a 12 month stay at the South County Sober Housing transitional house, Carmen secured permanent housing in Hayward with the help of the Rise Shelter Plus Care Program. “During her two year partnership with BOSS, Carmen has been a positive influence and instrumental in uniting her peers to rally for Proposition 63*,” says Case Manager Monica Chambers. (*Proposition 63 is a state initiative passed by voters to allocate new funds for mental health services.)

For the first time in 20 years, Carmen is living in her own apartment. “To have my own place is relaxing and gives me a sense of freedom. It’s a whole new experience,” she said. Her life is full with self care activities, serving food to the homeless through Bread for Life once a week, and attending Chabot College. She credits her success to healthy eating, regular exercise and a strong spiritual connection. “My personal journey was stressful, lonely, depressing and unforgettable. I survived because I was strong and God must have been looking out for me.” She added, “and because BOSS rescued me.”

BOSS is very fortunate to have Carmen as a BOSS board member. She is the embodiment of wellness and self advocacy in her life and volunteerism.

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