Sylvester struggled with addiction. He was living with his brother and sister-in-law when he was told he had to find somewhere else to live. His brother took him to a hotel, but it was too expensive; his only other option was a homeless shelter. Sylvester says he came to the Men's Shelter of Charlotte "ill with addiction." His case manager helped him enroll in a substance abuse program. While he worked hard at getting sober, he volunteered in the kitchen at the shelter. He also underwent two surgeries to replace both hips. After his last surgery, he moved back in with his brother - this time clean and sober. He stayed with his brother until he began receiving disability benefits and was able to move into his own place.

Now Sylvester is giving back to the shelter by working in our kitchen every day. Even though he is a volunteer, he works as many hours as a full time employee. He also helps other homeless men who face addictions, serving as a guide and mentor. "If I can help just one guy get clean, I've accomplished something," he says. With the help of Men's Shelter of Charlotte staff, Sylvester has overcome homelessness and addiction.