Driving Generational Change: Victoria’s Journey to Success

At Project Self-Sufficiency, we empower single parents and their children by creating generational opportunities for success. Now in its 39th year in Larimer County and third in Weld County, our impact continues to grow.

A key partner in this mission, Houska Automotive, a third-generation family business, has been driving families toward success for over 72 years. This summer, their generosity made a life-changing impact on Victoria, a respiratory therapy student, and her son, D’Andre. Thanks to Houska’s donation of a reliable SUV, Victoria can now focus on her career and education without the constant worry of transportation.

“The Houska Automotive team is proud to be able to donate a vehicle to a family of Project Self-Sufficiency for the 16th year,” said LJ Houska, Vice President of Houska Automotive. “Raising kids is not an easy job, especially if you don’t have reliable transportation. Hopefully, this car will make Victoria’s life a little easier. Helping with transportation needs and issues is what we have done for the past 72 years.”

Weld Community Outreach and Program Advisor Mistie Trefry explained, “Victoria had to borrow a family member’s car after her vehicle broke down. If Victoria is unsuccessful in her academic achievements, more than a degree is riding on it: It would mean repaying her employer for the education expenses they are covering if she is unable to complete her degree successfully.”

“I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years, and I have seen that respiratory therapists are the EMTs of the hospital – I want to be a part of that,” shared Victoria. “During COVID, I saw an RT’s vital role in their patients’ care and how much of a difference they make.”

This partnership with Houska is not just about cars—it’s about driving real, lasting change for families like Victoria’s.

>>Read the encore story published in Bizwest, August 2024.