By The Voices of I Am New Orleans audio series amplifies the ideas, leadership and stories of local youth. Produced in partnership with Be Loud Studios, the series highlights the work of W.K. Kellogg Foundation grantees and the young people stepping up to create a stronger, more vibrant future for New Orleans.
Episode 8: Failure Is Just Growth
In this episode, we meet Taylor and Roland, two courageous young adults whose lives have been transformed by Covenant House, a community-based organization supporting youth experiencing homelessness in New Orleans. They reflect on their personal journeys with mental health, housing instability, and substance use—and how Covenant House provided not only shelter, but purpose, healing, and hope.
They’re joined by Covenant House’s Director of Community and Youth Engagement Sheri Combs, whose own experience living in foster care fuels her commitment to helping young people succeed.
“I wish I could tell my younger self to pour into myself, to see my value, speak up and don’t ever be afraid to speak up for what’s right,” says Sheri, emphasizing the power of affirming youth as they navigate complex challenges..
Covenant House fosters close, intentional relationships with each young person, walking alongside them as they move toward stable livelihoods and brighter futures.
Taylor, a Covenant House member for the past decade, credits the program’s team—especially leaders like Sheri—with her growth and motivation.
“Being there for someone makes me most happy,” says Taylor. “No matter what, whenever I went to the Covenant House, people like Miss Sheri would be there for me.”
For Roland, Covenant House’s two-year transitional program has opened new possibilities.
“The two-year program is helping me save money and become a better version of myself,” says Roland, describing how Covenant House’s life skills training and programs are helping him reach his goal of having his own apartment and car.
Why It Matters
Covenant House is Louisiana’s only youth homelessness shelter, serving more than 700 young people each year. As a safe and affirming space for youth ages 16 to 22, the program bridges the gap between crisis and opportunity by offering:
- Trauma-informed counseling and wellness services
- Educational support and job readiness training
- Stable housing and intentional community
- Long-term relationship-building rooted in dignity and trust
In a city where youth homelessness is on the rise, Covenant House represents not just shelter—but a foundation for transformation. Its impact echoes far beyond its walls, as each young person it serves moves toward a future filled with possibility.
Listen In
Visit iamneworleansvoices.com/listen to hear Episode 8 and learn more about how Covenant House is working to address youth homelessness by providing supportive counseling, resources and programs to help young people become independent members of the New Orleans community.
Comments