At Magdala House, we believe every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated—not just for surviving but for thriving. And that’s exactly what happened on a recent afternoon at Tiny Homes when our tenants transformed the upstairs conference room into a stage for courage, creativity, and community.
The “Speak Your Mind” Open Mic wasn’t something the staff orchestrated. It was tenant-led, tenant-driven, and tenant-powered—proof that healing doesn’t just come from services but from the freedom to express your whole self. From the first note to the final bow, the day was filled with joy, laughter, and a deep sense of connection.
Residents stepped up to the mic to share their souls through poetry, song, and dance. One brave tenant played heartfelt melodies on a keyboard while singing her truth. She shared her testimony—how Magdala and Occupational Therapist Hailey helped her find the confidence to believe: “I can do this.”
Even staff joined in. One brought out a guitar, singing alongside residents and reminding us all that healing is a shared experience. In those few hours, the labels fell away. There were no “clients” or “case workers”—just people. Artists. Neighbors. Friends.
What made the day even more moving was the return of a former tenant—now thriving in his own apartment. He didn’t just come to perform; he came to pour back into the community that once poured into him. After his set, he sat with the newest tenant and shared a few humble, hard-earned words: “Take this program seriously. Follow the rules. Do what’s asked of you. If you do, you’ll have your own place too.” And then, with pride, he pulled out his keys and showed them off.
These are the moments that define Magdala—not just the big milestones but the everyday acts of connection that remind us why we do this work. That former tenant still keeps in touch with his occupational therapist. Their bond, built through challenge and nurtured in care, continues to grow even as he steps into this next chapter of independence.
The “Speak Your Mind” Open Mic wasn’t just an event. It was a celebration of resilience, voice, and the power of community. At Magdala, we’ll always believe in celebrating our tenants—not just for who they are, but for who they’re becoming.
Read more about Chase’s Open Mic Story
Read more about Denise’s Open Mic Story
Support Voices That Deserve to Be Heard
When you donate to Magdala House, you help create spaces where healing, self-expression, and dignity thrive. Events like “Speak Your Mind” aren’t just inspiring—they’re life-changing.
Give today and help more tenants find their voice and their power.
