Meghan first visited Ozone House’s Youth Drop-In Center in Ypsilanti at 10 years old to get a hot meal with her older siblings. “The priority was always to get something to eat because we might not get something later on,” explains Meghan.

But through her visits to the Drop-In Center she also received a different kind of sustenance. “All these positive young people were reaching out to us - people I could personally identify with.

“Meghan is undoubtedly one of the most creative and talented people I have ever met,” shares Colleen O’Brien, Youth Development Director.

At 16, Meghan became the youngest member of Project SpeakOUT, Ozone House’s poetry team. With the team, Meghan has the opportunity to participate in a nation-wide competition in New York City. “Seeing the city and participating in these amazing things made my dream of going to school in New York one day seem more real,” Meghan explains.

Through her poetry and support at Ozone House, Meghan became an important voice to her peers. “Poetry helps me express myself, and I’ve had the chance to share my message with others.” Meghan became a Peer Outreach Worker at the Drop-In Center to reach out to other high-risk youth. Each year the POWs reach more than 2000 youth by handing out help cards and offering support and positive encouragement.

Among many community service projects, Meghan participated in outreach efforts as a motivational speaker in Detroit middle schools. “She uses her talent and creativity to engage other youth and make them feel comfortable,” says Colleen.

Never losing sight of her ultimate goal to return to NYC, she continued to work hard at school with the support of Ozone House staff and peers. Meghan began attending classes at NYU in the Fall of 2007.

“Words cannot describe how proud I am of Meghan. She never wavered from her goal. She believed in herself and we believed in her.” Colleen O’Brien, Youth Development Director

Meghan
in the recording studio