MUNCIE, Ind. — A Better Way is a shelter where they aim to reduce domestic abuse, sexual assault, suicide, and homelessness. People come to the shelter in crisis situations when they need a safe space to recover from traumatic experiences they may have faced. Cooper Sprague, the Rapid Rehousing Landlord Liaison, says that home isn’t always the roof over your head.
“Home is who you choose to surround yourself with, and what makes you, what makes you who you are,” said Sprague.
Executive Director Teresa Clemmons has been with A Better Way for 30 years now. A Better Way is a nonprofit with funding from federal funding and grants. Clemmons explains that when she first came in and learned the mission, she fell in love with it and knew she was exactly where she needed to be. She has had many moments and stories that have stuck with her over the years. There is one in particular that tested her patience, but also reminded her why they do what they do.
A 14-year-old was staying in the shelter after a crisis situation, and according to Clemmons, was difficult to work with due to being frustrated with his own situation.
“I just remember going home that day and thinking, wow, no kid should feel like that ever, and so, it made me know we had to keep going,” said Clemmons.
Along with shelter, A Better Way provides domestic violence case management. Ashley Gore, a domestic violence case manager, talks about how it is difficult hearing their stories.
“It’s terrifying to like hear that and hear that stuff actually like that happens in movies is happening behind closed doors and you wouldn’t even know it,” said Gore.
Even though she struggles to hear these things, she focuses on self-care and prioritizing her mental health. She tells herself not everyday is like this and some will be harder than others. Being a shoulder to lean on is what keeps her going and showing up everyday.
If a client isn’t ready to share their story, Clemmons reminds them it’s all on their terms and that the end isn’t the end, it is a new start.
“Just know we care about you, and we will sit here with you as long as it takes, till you’re ready, and then we’ll move forward,” said Clemmons.
Contact Cameron Noe with questions at cameron.noe@bsu.edu.
