Honorable Mention – Shelly Amaral

Shelly successfully completed the Pacheco Court Transitional Housing Program in February 2004. She came to the program to obtain housing and learn recovery and life skills. Shelly is recovering from a 15 year chemical addiction and a long history with mental health instability. “Just because I have an illness does not mean I can not adapt and succeed.” Shelly said. 

Shelly has been in independent housing in Pleasanton for 3 ½ years and has been clean and sober for four years. Her two great accomplishments are losing 210 pounds through surgery, proper diet and implementing healthy living skills and purchasing a brand new car. 

Shelly has a nine year old daughter who she treasures and who was recently diagnosed with ADHD, she has become an advocate for her daughter and makes sure she receives the attention and services she needs. Shelly is an active volunteer at her daughter’s school, participates regularly in her church community. Due to serious health problems, Shelly is not able to participate in this year’s graduation.

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