By Breanna Luckadoo, Executive Director at Entryway Denver
SNAPSHOTS
FROM HARDSHIP TO HOPE:
DARREN | MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN, DENVER
Darren’ s journey is one of resilience, gratitude, and new beginnings.
For years, Darren dedicated his life to helping others as a paramedic. But after a serious medical issue forced him to step away, his life changed dramatically. He became a full-time caregiver for his mother until her passing, and after her loss, he moved in with a friend to rebuild. During that time, Darren suffered a stroke. While recovering in the hospital, the friend he trusted emptied his bank account— leaving him with nothing and nowhere to go.
Through another nonprofit in Denver, Darren was referred to Entryway, where he found support, purpose, and a fresh start through its integrated employment and housing stabilization model. After completing training, he began a new role as a groundskeeper at an IRT Living community— where he now lives and works onsite, providing both stable housing and steady income.
Darren says this opportunity has been life-changing:“ I am loving this job and the people I work with. My supervisors have been so welcoming … I feel like the luckiest person to be working here.”
Now, Darren is thriving. Recently, he was offered a promotion to a maintenance technician role— a reflection of his dedication and hard work over the last nine months.
His manager shared:“ Darren has shown us that you can always start over and succeed … he will go very far in the industry.”
Darren’ s story is a powerful reminder of what’ s possible when compassion and opportunity come together. That’ s exactly what Entryway is all about— empowering individuals to build stability and a brighter future. www. aamdhq. org TRENDS APRIL 2026 | 11