Shar
Hey I’m Shar, this is my story.
When I was 17 years old I needed a change from my current living situation. I was living with my cousin and prior to that I was in and out of CYF’s care. I really liked Te Awamutu and wanted to look for a flatting opportunity there for myself. ConneXu was the place for me so I moved into a house that I shared with three flatties and a Community Facilitator who provided me with the guidance and support I needed to increase my independence.
When I moved I needed some specific supports with money management and self-confidence. I would sometimes get the story mixed up and would not always tell the truth. I found it hard to trust people and often would see things as black or white nothing in-between.
I was attending Enrich+ day service for five days a week to help provide me with constructive days and to assist me to develop new skills so I could gain employment.
During the last two years ConneXu has helped me to become more independent. I live in a house where I share my own mini flat with my friend Hannah. We have our own living space, which includes our own lounge and bathroom, but we share a kitchen with Michael and Carol. I do my own weekly shopping and cook with little oversight. We all have a Community Facilitator, who stays overnight as we are all not ready to be living completely independently – maybe soon.
I understand more about money and have a micro-business of walking dogs and providing them with companionship when their owners are at work. I now have a savings plan to help me achieve my travel dreams and aspirations. I have more confidence and feel comfortable making decisions and choices about my life. I asked to decrease my units of support with Enrich+ and use this time for my business and study through the local Te Wananga.
ConneXu has helped me to build and fill my life with opportunities for a bright interdependent future doing what I want to do and making choices that will guide where I go on my path.
