"Nothing in God's world happens by mistake," says Lucretia, a 41-year-old former resident of Bonaventure House. "Everything happens for a reason."

Lucretia is a woman who lives her life without regret. Prior to her arrival at Bonaventure House, she had spent 20 years supporting a drug habit through prostitution. She wouldn't change a thing though, for her experience has made her who she is today.

"For every negative, there's always a positive," she says.

In her 18 months at Bonaventure House, Lucretia made significant changes in her life. In addition to enhancing her professional skills, she chaired, and continues to chair, Narcotics Anonymous and Prostitutes Anonymous meetings at several area locations, including the Women's Treatment Center. She works part-time as a prevention counselor, sharing her experiences with at-risk youth.

In October of 2005, Lucretia married. She and her husband moved into an apartment in fall of 2006 after Lucretia completed the program.

Reflecting on her time at Bonaventure House, Lucretia feels that she gained dignity, respect for herself and an increased sense of independence. She met wonderful people and truly found her identity.

"Most of all," she says, "I learned how to live with myself."