Together, Four Oaks, Jane Boyd, and the Affordable Housing Network work to ensure the success of children and families across Iowa. Through a comprehensive network of resources and programs, our partnership of agencies is able to create a continuum of care to address a variety of barriers to success.

For the Thurmon family, this innovative approach that brings the child, family and community together in a wide-ranging way has helped them build a stronger tomorrow for their family.

“It can only benefit your family and make it stronger,” Destiny Thurmon said. “Four Oaks has given so many supports. It has helped our family survive. Four Oaks has helped make the kids more positive, healthy and productive young adults.”

Destiny and her children, Desmarie (26), Jerome (24), Nashaunda (20), Jamar (18), and Jquan (9), with the support of resources and programs through Four Oaks and Jane Boyd, have worked on their family relationships, communication and problem-solving, self-sufficiency, and setting goals for their futures. Since starting their relationship with Four Oaks and its affiliates, the Thurmon family has achieved stability and are continuing on their journey to success.

One program that has been especially impactful for the family has been the TotalChild® Workforce program. Both Jamar and Nashaunda have participated in TotalChild® Workforce and have plans to pursue higher education. “The Workforce Program helped connect my kids with education pathways and college,” Destiny said. “I know nothing about either of those things and it was so nice to have a support person helping them navigate getting into college and make the transition successfully.”

Destiny expressed how significant her relationships with Four Oaks staff have been in her life and the lives of her children. “I appreciate how the staff forms personal relationships, where people connect with your family on a personal level,” Destiny says. “They make a connection and make our lives easier.”