When PJ was a young child, he was separated from his biological parents. They were addicted to drugs and alcohol, and their living conditions were unsafe for him and his younger brother.

PJ entered foster care when he was 10 years old, and he lived in multiple placements before being adopted nearly five years ago. Unfortunately he had trouble adjusting to his new circumstances, and he began to act out at home and at school.

"I had a bunch of hate, depression and anxiety," he explained. "I was mad at the world. I had trouble concentrating in school and was defiant with my parents and teachers."

He arrived at Ozanam in 2007 only four days before Christmas. He felt angry and alone, but staff members provided comfort and support. PJ began to open up to his therapists about feelings of neglect and abandonment that he felt as a young child, and he learned how to cope with his emotions.

"Not everyone is meant to be a parent," he explained. "You can't hate someone who tried to love you but didn't know how."

His grades in school improved, and he became involved in a number of activities on campus. He attended Learning Lab on Tuesday evenings and obtained an on-campus job through Ozanam's Work Program. He especially appreciated the chance to join Ozanam's basketball team.

"Before coming to Ozanam, I never played basketball on a team or even a pick-up game," he said. "I didn't want to try it, but then I worked with everyone here and got better."

He had to do well in school in order to participate, and so it provided extra motivation for him to succeed. His favorite memory is traveling with the team to St. Louis for their annual tournament.

In the two years since he arrived, PJ has made many wonderful memories and has shown much improvement at Ozanam. He credits his success to his mentor and the caring staff members. He also claims that his little brother provided the most compelling motivation for him to change.

"The turning point for me was when I realized that I wanted to be a good example for my little brother," he said. "Hopefully, we will always have each other."

Preparing to turn 18 years old in January, PJ is busy making plans for his future by seeking out college advisors and scholarships. He will graduate from high school in December and will take the ACT. He hopes to learn about construction management and carpentry, and he is also interested in becoming a chef.

"Happiness is having a family that I can support and being able to do what I enjoy," he said. "I would tell the other kids here to never give up, to follow your dreams, and to be who you are but in a mature and responsible way. Each person has a different life, but you've got to live it to the fullest and put the past behind you."