Our alumni stories are among our greatest superpowers at The Healing Place. They embody hope, transformation, strength, and inspiration. Hearing real-life testimonies of the spirit of The Healing Place and its transformative resources is a true gift. Tonya’s journey with the GED program is one of those powerful stories.
Tonya Pelfrey’s path to THP began with a moment of reckoning. After being referred by probation and parole following an evaluation with a drug counselor, she realized that although she was no longer drinking, she was still harming herself by misusing prescription medication. That’s when THP became the lifeline she needed.
As she moved forward in her journey, Tonya was introduced to THP’s GED program: a program that meets each participant where they are. At the time, she was hesitant. “My roadblock was fear,” Tonya admits. “I was such an overachiever that I had a fear of failure.” Despite being an advanced student throughout school, one missing credit had kept her from graduating. Decades later, at 41 years old, she still hadn’t earned her diploma.
What Tonya discovered in the GED program was more than just classes; it was a culture of compassion and empowerment. “Love, compassion, and strength,” she says. “The women who run the program want everyone to succeed. They’ll do whatever it takes to help you achieve your goals. There’s no judgment, only support.” From tutoring to personalized tools, the program provided everything she needed to finally overcome her fears.
Earning her GED gave Tonya something she hadn’t felt in years: self-confidence. “A newfound confidence in myself and the hope that I can help others achieve their goals,” she says. While her long-term dream remains to further her education, the GED program opened doors she never thought possible. Since graduating, she’s pursued several trainings and continues to build on the foundation the program gave her.
Beyond academics, the GED program provided Tonya with a sense of community. “The class and tutoring were amazing experiences,” she explains. Though she was able to complete her GED after attending only one class, she stayed involved, working with the program to help other students during the remainder of her time on campus.
Tonya’s story is also a message to others. Her journey proves the power of second chances, community support, and programs designed to break down barriers to education. Thanks to the generosity of the Acorn Ladies (Jewels of Grace) and the Friendship Class at Christ Church United Methodist, stories like Tonya’s are made possible.