In November 2009, Terra found herself at a critical juncture in life. At just 19 years old, she was escaping a volatile and dysfunctional home. Desperate for a safe place but unwilling to settle for a traditional shelter, Terra’s determination led her to Covenant House Greater Washington, a decision that would change her life forever.
On her first day at Covenant House, the environment was a shock. Terra had never shared space with strangers before, and her suburban upbringing hadn’t prepared her for the realities of homelessness. But it was in those initial days that she realized something profound: homelessness doesn’t have a “look.” She connected with others who, like her, were struggling but still aspired to something greater. “There’s always going to be someone with a worse story than you,” Terra later reflected—a humbling realization that shifted her perspective.
At Covenant House, Terra found more than just a bed; she found a community of people who cared. Having a safe, stable place to sleep allowed her to focus on her goals. She continued working, attending school, and caring for her 5-month-old son, determined to make the most of the opportunity. Covenant House provided the support and security Terra needed, empowering her to rebuild her life and regain her sense of self-worth.
Terra’s journey didn’t end when she left Covenant House in 2011. Today, she is a mental health case manager, dedicating her career to helping others in the community. She advocates for students in schools, supports families during 504 meetings, and fights for the rights of young people—ensuring they receive the support she didn’t have as a child. Her work extends beyond the clinical side of mental health; Terra actively engages with young people, ensuring they know they are seen and heard.
In addition to her professional work, Terra founded Chase Change, an organization that provides programming to help young adults acknowledge their mental health from an evolved and holistic perspective. Chase Change creates spaces where youth can learn about their mental well-being, embrace healing, and build meaningful support networks. Her mission is to help young people connect with themselves and others in a way that fosters long-term growth.
Terra’s connection to Covenant House remains strong. Every year, she partners with Covenant House Greater Washington to host two impactful events: New Year, New Vision and Thanks Given. New Year, New Vision is a vision board event that empowers young people to dream and set goals for the upcoming year. Thanks Given, held around Thanksgiving, focuses on giving oneself grace. This event helps youth experiencing homelessness navigate the emotional challenges of the holiday season, when the absence of natural supports and family can be especially painful. During Thanks Given, they address grievance, and Terra helps participants focus on gratitude and personal growth, steering them away from the heaviness of their circumstances.
Reflecting on her journey, Terra emphasizes the importance of being open to receiving help. “You have to allow people to pour into you,” she advises. She believes that listening and learning from others’ experiences is crucial, particularly for young people navigating the complexities of life. Terra’s advocacy for mental health and homelessness is rooted in her personal experiences, and her ability to relate to those she serves makes her an invaluable resource in the community.
From escaping homelessness to empowering others, Terra Stephens' story is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the impact of giving back. Her work with Covenant House and Chase Change continues to inspire and uplift young adults, offering them the tools they need to succeed, just as Covenant House once did for her.
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