Hope Through Mentorship

Recently featured in a National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) booklet and invited to speak during a NAMI event at Embassy Suites in Rockford, Illinois, Rockford Housing Authority YouthBuild Case Manager Calvin Weasley is using his story to inspire others through mentorship, mental health advocacy, and community service.

For Calvin, the work is deeply personal.

Growing up, he faced childhood trauma, learning difficulties, instability, and moments that left him searching for direction. Yet even during difficult seasons of life, he remembers witnessing compassion through his grandmother, who regularly opened her home to people in need despite carrying tremendous responsibilities of her own. That example of helping others stayed with him.

Throughout his journey, mentors, counselors, educators, and community leaders continued pouring into his life, helping him discover structure, purpose, and confidence in himself. Over time, Calvin began rebuilding his path through education, faith, mentorship, and personal growth — experiences that now shape the way he connects with young people every day.

Today, Calvin brings that perspective directly into his role with YouthBuild at Rockford Housing Authority, where he works closely with young adults navigating barriers related to education, employment, trauma, and personal development. His approach focuses on accountability, encouragement, and helping participants recognize that their circumstances do not define their future.

“I always wanted to give back because I know how it feels to be lost,” Calvin said.

In addition to his work with YouthBuild, Calvin partners with NAMI through “Barbershop Talk 101,” a monthly initiative designed to create open conversations around mental health while connecting community members with support, resources, and encouragement.

Calvin also continues building his nonprofit organization, The Power of Hope, which focuses on mentorship, leadership, and helping individuals find positive direction within the community.

Through advocacy, mentorship, and service, Calvin’s story reflects the impact that support systems, second chances, and genuine compassion can have on a person’s life. At Rockford Housing Authority, that commitment continues through the work he does each day — helping young people build confidence, stability, and hope for the future.

Want to learn how mentorship and workforce development programs are changing lives in our community? Discover YouthBuild and other pathways to success at Rockford Housing Authority.