I’m writing this with a lot of humility.

Not long ago, my life was controlled by alcohol and drugs. I hurt people I love. I hurt myself. I burned bridges and lost stability. There were times I didn’t think I would ever rebuild.

Today, I’m in recovery. I wake up clear-headed. I show up to work. I take responsibility for my actions. I’m learning how to live differently — one day at a time.

I was recently promoted to full-time as a chef at the El Capitan Hotel. That promotion means more to me than just a paycheck. It means someone trusts me. It means I’ve earned back reliability. It means I’m becoming someone I can be proud of.

Right now, I have the opportunity to move into an apartment where rent is $875 a month. I’ve secured a deposit voucher to help with part of the move-in costs, which I’m incredibly grateful for. But I still need help covering the first month’s rent and remaining expenses.

I’m asking for $1,500 to cover:

* First month’s rent ($875)

* Remaining move-in costs and fees

* Basic moving expenses and essentials

I don’t want to go backward. Stable housing is a huge part of staying sober and continuing to grow. After long shifts in the kitchen, I need a safe place to come home to — somewhere steady, somewhere healthy.

Asking for help is uncomfortable. My pride tells me I should do this alone. But recovery has taught me that isolation is dangerous and community is powerful.

If you can help, even a small amount, I am deeply grateful. If you can’t, sharing this means just as much.

Thank you for giving me the chance to keep building a different life than the one I was headed toward.

With gratitude,

Armond Henderson