A New Life, Just Like God Promised
When Ashley arrived at Wheeler Mission the day after Christmas, she was ready for a change. Life had been hard, and she longed for a fresh start—a place to rebuild, reconnect with her son, and discover hope again.
She hadn’t even known about Wheeler until a family member told her. “I got here as quickly as I could,” she said. “I knew I didn’t want to be where I was anymore.”
That Christmas morning had been a turning point. After time apart from her family, Ashley reunited with her mom and spent the day with her little boy. “It was the first time in almost a year,” she shared. “It felt like I had never left.” The very next day, she stepped through Wheeler Mission’s doors, beginning a journey that would change her life.
"I have a whole new lease on life. I have a relationship with God. I want to live. I’m ecstatic—it’s a new life, just like God promised.”
The Road to Healing
Her first night was filled with uncertainty. “I didn’t know what to expect,” she said. But just two days later, she joined Higher Ground, Wheeler Mission’s long-term, Christ-centered recovery program. “Best decision I ever made,” Ashley said.
Through classes like the Genesis Process, Emotionally Healthy Relationships, and anger management, Ashley began to understand patterns from her past and how to approach life in a healthier way. She also found a community that welcomed her without judgment—people who celebrated her return even after a brief time away.
“When I came back, everyone was so happy I was here. It was all love, all care—no judgment.”
Restored Creations & New Purpose
As Ashley settled into life at Wheeler, her gifts began to shine—especially when she joined Restored Creations, Wheeler’s social enterprise where women in the program craft beautiful, handmade candles.
Working side-by-side with other women in recovery, Ashley found joy in creating something from start to finish. “It’s amazing to see how the things we make can bring encouragement to someone else,” she said. “It’s not just about making products—it’s about the conversations, the laughter, and the teamwork.”
Her natural talent for building and fixing things quickly earned her the nickname “Ashley the Builder.” She put together furniture, helped with repairs, and even pitched in on the computer when others needed tech support. “I’ve always been a helper, but I didn’t realize how much I enjoyed it until I was here,” she said.
The creativity, focus, and teamwork she experienced in Restored Creations helped Ashley grow in confidence—skills she’s now thinking about applying toward trade school in plumbing or electrical work.
Looking Ahead
Ashley’s biggest goal is to be reunited with her son. In the meantime, she’s soaking up every bit of support Wheeler offers—counseling, Bible studies, recovery meetings, and practical help like replacing her lost birth certificate and preparing to regain her driver’s license.
Watch Ashley’s story here: Watch Video
