For 40 years, Good Counsel has been a refuge for pregnant mothers in crisis, offering them not just shelter, but a path to stability, independence, and hope. Since opening our doors in 1985, we have provided care, guidance, and a loving home to more than 8,000 mothers and their children, ensuring that no mother walks her journey alone.To honor this milestone, we are sharing 40 stories—real stories of strength, resilience, and transformation. Each month, we will post four stories from the mothers, house managers, and caseworkers who have been part of Good Counsel’s mission, giving a glimpse into the lives forever changed by your support.Follow along as we celebrate four decades of life-affirming work. You can read these stories on our blog at goodcounselhomes.org or by following us on Facebook @goodcounselhomes. Together, let’s continue to support mothers, save lives, and build a future filled with hope.

When Jasmine arrived at Good Counsel’s Daystar home in the spring of 2018, she was eight months pregnant and facing more than just the weight of impending motherhood. Diagnosed with cognitive developmental disabilities and a mental health condition, Jasmine had spent much of her life being told what she couldn’t do. Her parents loved her deeply, but the idea of her parenting a child on her own felt impossible to them.

But Jasmine believed otherwise. She didn’t just want to parent—she wanted to persevere.

From the moment she walked through the door, Jasmine was met with patience, compassion, and a plan. With the support of her House Manager, Case Manager, and a dedicated mentor, she began preparing for the arrival of her baby girl.

Jasmine enrolled in Ability Beyond, a day program specifically tailored to her developmental needs. She remained consistent with her mental health appointments at St. Vincent’s Hospital and committed herself to growing in every area of life. At Good Counsel, she took part in life skills and parenting classes, learning everything from how to do laundry and cook simple meals to how to safely bathe and feed a newborn. Staff often caught glimpses of her quietly practicing—folding blankets, arranging her crib, and rocking a baby doll with care and determination.

By the time baby Sarah was born in May, Jasmine had gained confidence. She still needed support, but her growth was undeniable. She was overjoyed to hold her daughter, and even more proud that she could provide for her—not just physically, but emotionally.

Jasmine completed the Good Counsel program by the following summer. When her parents came to bring her home, they were stunned. The daughter they picked up was no longer defined by what she couldn’t do—she was now a mother, a homemaker, and a woman who had grown stronger than they ever imagined.

They thanked Good Counsel for the transformation they witnessed, especially the parenting skills Jasmine had mastered. Since returning home, Jasmine has continued the routines she learned while in the home. Her family now eats dinner every night at 6 p.m., followed by household chores—because, as Jasmine told them, “That’s what we did at Good Counsel.”

Her story is a reminder that with the right support, love, and encouragement, every mother has the capacity to rise—no matter the challenges she faces.

Jasmine's journey is one of quiet strength, daily victories, and unwavering love. And like so many others, it all began with someone believing she could.

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