Today, we highlight the inspiring journey of one remarkable individual whose path has been marked by resilience, healing and the pursuit of unconditional love.
Ace grew up in Massachusetts in a home filled with instability. Her childhood was shaped by the pain of verbal abuse and the controlling behavior of her biological father. These early challenges took a toll on her mental health, setting the stage for years of inner turmoil.
As Ace moved into adulthood, the struggles continued. She faced abusive relationships and battled substance abuse -- painful chapters that could have defined her story. But things began to shift when she connected with a local recovery community built by paraprofessionals -- people who had walked similar paths and created a space of understanding, support and accountability.
With the help of this community, Ace began the long road to recovery. Over three and a half years, they stood by her side -- through relapses, setbacks and breakthroughs. Then came a powerful turning point: Ace became a parent. That moment deepened her commitment to change.
“My child was a sign that things could get better,” she reflected. “That I could become the person I wanted to be.”
Today, Ace has been sober for more than six years. Along the way, she met her partner, Stephanie, who brought love, support and encouragement. With Stephanie’s help, Ace sought further healing and was diagnosed with a neurological disorder. This diagnosis unlocked a new level of growth through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), helping Ace find balance and peace.
Still, one of Ace’s greatest priorities was becoming the best parent she could be. That’s when she discovered Boys Town New England.
Boys Town’s parent-training programs gave Ace the tools she was looking for.
“This is it,” she said when she first experienced the program. “It uses love as a way of teaching and learning. It helped me care for my child with intimacy, gentle strength and understanding -- on both sides.”
As she officially became a foster parent -- raising both her biological child and a foster child -- Ace made it her mission to “break the toxic cycle and showcase unconditional love.” Through Common Sense Parenting® classes, she learned how to build healthier patterns of communication and behavior within her family.
“I want my children to learn from my mistakes,” she said.
Today, Ace continues to turn to Boys Town, exploring school-based programs to further support her children’s growth. She speaks with deep appreciation for the impact Boys Town has had on her family -- and the broader Rhode Island community.
“I’d love to see Boys Town expand,” she said. “There are so many kids and families who could benefit from these programs.”
Ace’s story is one of many -- but it powerfully illustrates what’s possible when courage meets compassion. With support, determination and love, families across New England are rewriting their stories -- and giving children the brighter futures they deserve.