A Story That Came Full Circle: One Family's Connection to PCHAS

For Amie Terrana, PCHAS has been part of her family's story for many years. What began as support for a teenager finding her way has grown into something even more meaningful: the opportunity for her own children to experience that same care and encouragement.

As a teenager, Amie spent time at the PCHAS youth home in Farmington during a difficult season of her life. She remembers feeling lost and unsure of where she belonged. The staff welcomed her, listened to her, and made her feel safe. They believed in her, even when she couldn't always see the good in herself.

Those relationships stayed with her long after she left the youth home.

Years later, Amie found herself turning to PCHAS again, this time as a mother of three. When her son was having a difficult time, his school connected him with a PCHAS mentoring program. What happened next was a surprise she never expected.

At her son's first meeting with his mentor, Amie learned that the mentor had a home in Farmington. She asked if it was the same youth home she remembered. When the mentor said yes, Amie shared that she had once lived there as a teenager.

The same organization that had been there for Amie was now showing up for her son.

There was no question about enrolling him in the program. Amie already knew the people behind the work and the difference they could make.

Today, all three of her children are involved in PCHAS mentoring. Amie has watched her daughters grow more confident, come out of their shells, and become more comfortable opening up to others. They have mentors they trust and look up to, and people they know they can turn to when they need someone to listen.

As a mom, that means so much to her.

Amie appreciates that PCHAS takes the time to get to know each child and understand what they need. Every child has a different story, and mentors meet them where they are. For her children, those relationships have made a real difference.

Amie also remembers the little things from her own time at the youth home, especially holidays and special moments made possible by people who cared. Now, she gets to hear her children talk about the memories they're making through the program.

At the PCHAS St. Louis luncheon, Amie shared her story with a room full of supporters and reminded everyone why their generosity matters.

The care she received as a teenager didn't end with her. It carried into her adult life and reached her children, too.

As Amie shared, "The kindness that was shown to me didn't stop with me. It reached the next generation."

We are thankful for Amie and her family, and for everyone who makes these relationships possible. Your support helps PCHAS continue walking alongside children and families, reminding them that they are seen, valued, and never alone.