Since sharing her story at the Onward Neighborhood House Gala this past June, Esra Tawalbeh has continued to grow in confidence, stability, and purpose. She often reflects on how far she has come and says, “Before, I was always surviving, not living. Now, I have learned more about who I am and become more independent.” Her children see it too and can feel that she is calmer and happier. For Esra, the most important part of her progress is
simple: “My kids are safe, and they know they are safe.”

Esra is still pursuing her master’s degree in
computer science and is actively looking for a job in her field. She is also working toward moving into a home of her own, a goal that represents the stability she has been building for years. She reminds herself that she is “in a season of learning to live and not just survive,” and that mindset guides the choices she makes for her family.

She has taken on new leadership roles as well. Esra now serves as President of the Parent Policy Committee at Onward House. She has become someone other parents look to for support, and she says, “I want to help other families the way Onward helped me.” Her confidence has grown so much that she has been invited to speak at a potential community event in the future about Islam and her faith. Esra shared that she feels ready for this moment because “Even though I’m still learning who I am, I feel secure in myself.”

Her children continue to thrive. They are emotionally supported, independent, and growing into their own strengths. Esra sees their progress as proof of what a stable, loving home can
create. “They had so many opportunities because of Onward, and now they are so
independent,” she said.

Esra’s journey is still unfolding, but her life today reflects hope, healing, and strength. She is living with intention, giving back to her community, and moving closer to the future she once dreamed of. She thinks back to what she said at the gala:

“Onward Neighborhood House has been our home, our second chance, our new beginning.”

Today, that remains true. Every step she takes is rooted in the support she first received at Onward House, and she continues to carry its impact forward into her life, her children’s lives, and the community she now helps lead.