From the Streets to the Sidelines: The Redemption of Devion H.
At 16 years old, while most teenagers are worrying about their next game, Devion H. was staring into the eyes of his newborn son, Jamar. He desperately wanted to be a provider, but he lacked a blueprint. Without a father in his own home to guide him, Devion looked to the only “mentors” he saw: the men on the street corners.
“If I would have had a father or an individual on my back, I feel like certain situations wouldn’t have happened,” Devion reflects. “I was just a child myself, trying to provide for my child.”
The weight of that responsibility, carried without guidance, led to a 4.5-year prison sentence at age 18. In an instant, Devion lost his freedom, strained the relationship with his child’s mother, and was stripped of a life-changing football scholarship. He became another statistic—until he decided to rewrite his story
A Brotherhood of Healing
Seeking a fresh start, Devion enrolled in Fathers & Families Support Center (FFSC) 6-week Family Formation Program. He walked in looking for a job, but he walked out with a new perspective on manhood. He found himself amazed by the therapeutic nature of the classes and the transparency of the men around him.
“What I appreciated most was how there were different men who came to class dealing with similar situations, and how relatable the facilitators were,” Devion says. “I learned that you have to approach any situation with an open mind, knowing that the outcome impacts the children.”
The transformation was felt immediately by his five children. His daughter, Chasity (16), has watched her father evolve from a man struggling with his past into a pillar for her future.
“My dad is my biggest supporter,” Chasity says. “Seeing him work so hard for us makes me want to work just as hard. He’s always there when I need life advice or just someone to talk to.”
The Present Father
Today, Devion’s life is a whirlwind of meaningful moments. He has transitioned from a “child provider” to a mentor, coaching his 11-year-old son Chase’s football team. For Devion, being on that field isn’t just about sports; it’s about being the figure he never had—not just for Chase, but for his nephew who also plays on the team.
Whether he is helping 13-year-old Destiny navigate her world, giving dating advice to his older children, or simply watching Ms. Rachel with 4-month-old Dallis, Devion understands that his presence is his greatest gift.
“It’s not about the materialistic things that fathers are able to provide,” Devion explains. “Being nurturing and showing up is just as important. Watching Dallis play is truly the highlight of my day.”
His oldest, Jamar (20), now looks at his father as a roadmap for his own journey into adulthood.
“Watching my dad grow has taught me what accountability looks like,” Jamar shares. “He didn’t just tell us to be better; he showed us by changing his own life and building something for us.”
The FFSC Effect
Devion’s journey from the streets to successful entrepreneurship is a testament to the comprehensive support provided by FFSC. Our donors make this “Effect” possible:
–Employment & Growth: In his 4th week of class, Devion secured a role as a Grounds Keeper with McCormick through our Job Fair. His work ethic earned him a promotion to Make Ready Attendant within a year.
–Entrepreneurial Spirit: With the confidence gained from the program, Devion established a junk removal business and a lawn care service. He is also the proud Co-Owner of H-Stylez Braiding Bar alongside his wife.
–Co-Parenting Success: By learning healthy communication and patience, Devion repaired his relationships with the mothers of his children, ensuring a stable, loving environment for all five of his kids.
–Generational Change: Devion is no longer a man defined by his past, but a father defined by his presence. “I thank the program for directing me to the right path,” he says. “Because of the resources and support, I would recommend any father give this a chance.”
