John’s Story

John is grateful to have been part of Plummer’s Residential Program. Read his graduation speech.

“At Plummer…. we became a family. … When I went to detox or went to DYS lock up, because of the person I am, Plummer recognized my true personality. They knew that I needed another chance. Maybe a couple more chances than anybody would have thought. I’ve been through a lot.

It’s been over a decade since I’ve lived with my mom and my sisters. Communication was wobbly most of the time. It’s definitely hard being in a program hearing other people talk about leaving, going back to their mothers, and I’m thinking, “Hey, you’re lucky you can go back to your Mom.”

Although I don’t have the greatest connection to my parents, I still love them, no matter what. And I still love my sisters, no matter what. Even though it’s been difficult to see my sisters because they were in programs too and they had to do what they had to do to get out. And now I’m going to do the same thing.

My boss, mentor, Marty, has helped me get on my feet and has helped me in so many ways to mature. We also listen to the greatest oldies songs. I definitely know now that I was born in the wrong decade.

I always think about the people at Plummer who love me just as much as I love them. With the support of them, soon enough, as ready as I am, it’s time to take what I know and put it to the test.”

– John, former Group Home resident, now living on his own in Salem, MA.