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A woman who turned her life around with the support of a homelessness charity in Preston has received a Community Hero Award.
Before becoming head of support and deputy chief executive officer at Emmaus Preston, Karen Wallis lived through 15 years of street homelessness.
She won the prestigious award at a national assembly of more than 30 Emmaus communities and groups.
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The award recognises the positive impact of people on the lives of others. During her nine-year career in support, Karen has helped hundreds of people move onto new lives from homelessness.
Karen herself received support from Emmaus after 15 years of street homelessness, which was triggered by an abusive partner who forced her into addiction.
She said: “I am honoured to have been chosen for this award and want to thank Stephen, the Chief Executive Officer who nominated me. I am lucky to be able to put myself in the shoes of people supported by Emmaus, as I walked through the doors as one of these people 12 years ago.
“Emmaus has completely turned my life around. In my role as a staff member, I want to achieve this for everyone who walks through our doors. I went from being supported by Emmaus to someone supporting others due to the belief that the Chief Executive Officer, other staff and trustees had in me, especially when I didn’t always believe in myself.”
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Emmaus Preston provides people with experience of homelessness with a home, support, training and work opportunities and has three charity shops in the city.
Karen added: “I’ve done lots of training and love to learn, not just for myself, but because I want to be better for the people I support as they deserve the best I can offer. Emmaus can give the amazing opportunities that it gave to me to anyone who wants it.
“What makes this award all the more special is that it was made by recycling furniture from people who are part of an Emmaus community in the UK.
“For my opportunities, I’m eternally grateful. I came from a place of no hope and no future to where I am now. The best part is now being able to help others achieve their dreams.”
During her time at Emmaus, Karen has spoken to Parliament and been to Downing Street to call for better rights for people who are forced into homelessness when they have tried to escape domestic violence. She has also met some of the royal family.
Stephen Buchanan, Chief Executive Officer of Emmaus Preston, said: “Karen’s commitment to supporting every individual who is helped by Emmaus is truly inspiring.
“This award highlights her incredible efforts. Karen is a great leader of the support provided by Emmaus and we are so proud to see her recognised as a true community hero.”
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