Dear editor,

I would like to publicly thank some very special Napa residents, as well as one organization. I am a 19-year-old young woman who has lived in Napa most of my life and have had the honor of knowing so many great people. I moved out of my parents' house in November of 2005. If it wasn't for all the support I received, I would have never made the transition.

First off, I must thank my terrific parents. They have been so supportive and helpful during the last eight months of my "independence." They helped me move all my belongings out of their house. My mom and I have a check-in phone call every other day and my dad and I talk once a week. Also, my mom and I go out to dinner once a week, just to spend some time together. Without their continuous support, none of this would have been possible.

I would also like to thank Catholic Charities for their support from November through February. They run a program called Home Base, supportive housing in Napa for at-risk young adults and youths in transition from foster care, ages 18 to 24, from Napa County. It offers counseling to manage finances, pursue education and employment, and develop independent living skills. With their help, I was able to finish up my third semester of college, hold a job, and save up some money to accomplish the one thing I had set out to do — get an apartment. In February of 2006, I did just that. I moved into an apartment with two roommates — my boyfriend and one of our close friends.

Much thanks goes to my boyfriend. He is the joy of my life and has been a great help. I don't have a car, so he has driven me everywhere I have needed to go, or has let me use the car so I can drive myself. During the move into the apartment, he helped me move all my belongings. Also, our roommate has been a huge help, just being there as a friend and helping make rent affordable for us all.

Lastly, I would like to thank all my friends and their families for the support they have given me, not just with the move, but over the years as well. Everyone has been so helpful and supportive. It just goes to show how special friends and family can be. So, thank you everyone.

Brenda Brocker

Napa