Stories

Freedom Day is what Larry calls October 3rd, the day in 1966 when he first arrived on Nexus-Woodbourne Family Healing's campus, looking for a path forward. Nearly sixty years later, on that same date, he walked through those familiar doors once again.

When Virginia first came to Nexus Family Healing’s outpatient program in Austin, MN, she was facing one of the most difficult chapters of her life. At 53, she had just experienced the unexpected end of a long-term marriage.

Teenager Sarah arrived at Aspen House, a shelter for youth in crisis, devasted at having to leave her home. Our team at Aspen House provides a safe place to stay for youth 11-18 from all kinds of backgrounds and situations.

Robin faced challenges dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety. His relationship with his mother had been strained, and after experiencing the loss of loved ones, his way of coping led to a lot of anger. Robin took charge of his healing journey and found support at Nexus-Woodbourne Family Healing.

Joe and Anne always dreamed of having a big family. A friend introduced Joe and Anne to Nexus Family Healing’s foster care and adoption services where they received comprehensive training and guidance that prepared them for the realities of fostering.

Kattie’s life had been marked by hardship—struggles that left her feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about her future. As a mother, her greatest hope was to find success and stability for her two young sons, but the challenges they faced at home and within school made that feel out of reach.

At just 14 years old, Kayleigh was facing emotional storms that felt impossible to navigate. Kayleigh struggled daily with the challenges of being on the Autism Spectrum, compounded by diagnoses of anxiety, ADHD, and depression. When Kayleigh felt scared, frustrated, or angry, she turned to self-harm or ran away.

At 17, Taylor was experiencing repeated outbursts of intense anger. Her behavior wasn’t just emotionally charged—it was taking a toll on her entire family. As the situation grew more volatile, her parents became increasingly fearful, unsure of how to keep their daughter or their home safe.

Chase arrived at Nexus Family Healing's Gerard campus at the age of 11 during an incredibly challenging period in his young life. He struggled with managing his anger and emotions, resulting in numerous incidents of violence and running away from home.

When Marta first arrived at the Southeast Reginal Crisis Center (SERCC) in Rochester, MN, she was distressed and scared. Marta endured horrific abuse at the hands of a family member who lived with her. Take a look at how SERCC helped Marta navigate her crisis and support her mental health.

When Izzy first began her journey at Nexus Family Healing, it wasn’t easy. Izzy was able to find not only a safe space to grow, but a community where she could interact with peers and staff in meaningful ways.

When Anna came to Nexus Family Healing, she was experiencing suicidal ideations, unstable moods, aggressive outbursts, and a difficulty with relationships. Anna had exhausted other residential treatment programs. When Anna struggled to make progress, her family made the decision to move her.