Fred Copeland moved into 111 Jones with his mother and three siblings at the age of six. As a little boy, he was introduced to Mercy Housing’s resident services programs. His participation helped him get his homework done, taught him to help out with family chores, but still find time for the playground with friends. Twenty years later, Fred stood on our stage on June 14^th at our 30^th Anniversary Gala in front of hundreds of guests and looked back at his transformation and the memories of his Mercy Housing home.

“Mercy Housing inspires, educates, and most importantly gives back to the communities we all love,” said Fred. Now an artist with his own business, Fred is grateful for the afterschool programs and services that shaped him and made his dreams possible.

Fred’s story is not unlike that of many of our young residents. Resident services help develop long lasting relationships that nurture individual growth and community involvement through programs ranging from sports camps to computer classes.

At some of our San Francisco properties, residents ages 4 to 16 have formed a children’s choir and now gather for regular rehearsals throughout the week. The choir debuted at the Gala with the song, “Look Where He Brought Me From”—capturing the hope for a better future. And, it all starts with…home.