A Story of Resilience and Joy

Friday, August 28, 2026 | Travis Park Church News
by Stacy Harless

One of the greatest gifts of the work at The Commons at Travis Park United Methodist Church is getting to witness the beautiful stories that unfold when people are given a safe place to belong, a community that believes in them, and someone willing to walk alongside them.

One of those stories is our dear friend Remmie.

Remmie can be a little shy at times, but once you get to know him, his giggles, playful comebacks, and sense of humor will light up the room. He makes some of the best coffee around, is always willing to lend a hand, and is someone we can count on. He shows up, he works hard, and he brings joy with him.

What we love most about Remmie’s story is that he has been both a recipient and a giver within our Commons community. He has come through our doors to receive services, but he didn’t stop there. He began showing up to serve others, too. He has volunteered tirelessly and become someone who contributes to the very community that has supported him.

Through Pastor Johnny’s CORE team program, Remmie has learned skills and gained opportunities that are helping prepare him for this next chapter. He has worked through the ID recovery program, participated in job skills training, volunteered in different ministries, and remained faithful to the Alamo City Street Choir. Each step represents his determination to keep moving forward.

And along the way, something even more important has happened: Remmie has found community.

He regularly attends church and participates in ministry, and he has become a loved and valued part of our faith family. His story reminds us that transformation doesn’t always happen in one big moment. Sometimes it happens through a series of small steps. Showing up, trying again, learning something new, making a friend, finding your voice, and discovering that you matter.

And then came one of the biggest moments yet.

Remmie got the keys to his very own apartment!

Those keys represent so much more than a place to live. They represent stability. Dignity. Independence. Hope. A new beginning.

We are so incredibly proud of him.

Remmie’s story is exactly why The Commons matters. It reminds us that people don’t need to be “fixed.” They need to be seen. They need opportunities. They need relationships. They need a community willing to believe in them and walk beside them.

And sometimes, they just need someone to keep showing up.

We are so blessed to know Remmie and to have the privilege of witnessing this part of his journey. We celebrate him, we celebrate this new chapter, and we celebrate the beautiful reminder that hope grows when we do life together. Most of all that BELONGING IS HOLY.

Congratulations, Remmie. Your new lease on life is well deserved. We are so happy for you!