After years of experiencing homelessness and limited support, Elyse Moya has built a life filled with stability, empowerment, and community. Today, she celebrates sobriety, steady employment, and being a devoted mother, embracing each day with purpose and hope for the future.
“Now I feel totally empowered when I come in. I get to see all the great people I’ve worked with throughout different times and classes.”
Elyse’s journey with Chrysalis began with frustration and uncertainty. On her first visit, she arrived late and couldn’t get inside. “I was so mad at myself. I took a few buses, and I didn’t make it. I was sweaty, tired, and just frustrated that it didn’t work out.” Even in that moment, Richard Ferrari, her future employment specialist, offered reassurance and guidance, a small gesture that sparked her persistence and set the stage for her journey ahead.
“The next day, I was better prepared. I didn’t know what else to do. I had never done anything positive with my life, so I figured, what do I have to lose?”
Through determination and the support of her employment specialist, Elyse completed multiple classes, transitional jobs, and peer specialist training, sometimes traveling across the city just to attend. She credits the relationships she built at Chrysalis for helping her stay on track.
“That relationship I built with my employment specialist… the trust I gained in him-is really what ultimately led me to finish what I was supposed to do. He would tell me, ‘Just do this one little class.’ I didn’t realize I needed it until after it was over. That class changed a lot for me.”
Elyse reflects on the challenges she overcame. “I started experiencing homelessness when I was 14. Living on the streets felt normal. Being around ‘normal’ people was difficult. I wasn’t treating my mental health and I started using drugs. It became harder to live in the real world than to stay on the streets.”
Through Chrysalis, Elyse gained stability and a renewed sense of purpose. She now has her own home, her children living with her, and full-time employment. She also mentors youth, sharing her story to inspire them.
“Being able to give back instead of just take means a lot to me. Today, I’m able to show up for people… and I do it for a living now, thanks to Chrysalis.”
Elyse’s story of persistence, trust, and transformation has earned her recognition as the 2025 John Dillion Recipient at this year’s Butterfly Ball. Chrysalis is proud to honor her dedication to change and her commitment to supporting others facing similar barriers.
“Whatever you’re going through, always remember there’s something better in life that’s coming your way.”
Elyse is among thousands of individuals who turn to Chrysalis for guidance and resources each year. Your support helps create opportunities for people like Elyse to thrive, build confidence, and make a lasting impact in their communities.