From Homelessness to Housing Advocate: The Inspiring Journey of Justice Mya Castañeda
🏠 "A Child Can't Learn on an Empty Stomach"
Mya Castañeda knows this truth firsthand. Growing up in Madison's low-income housing, he spent his childhood moving between unstable homes. By 13, he was surviving on his own—"When you're that young," he reflects, "any way to make money is illegal."
⚖️ A Turning Point
At 18, Castañeda nearly faced prison after a school fight. "That first night in jail, I was terrified," he recalls. But dropped charges and a 1.46 GPA high school graduation led him to an unexpected lifeline: the U.S. Marines.
🎖️ The Military Difference
For the first time, Castañeda had:
✔ Three meals a day
✔ A stable roof overhead
✔ Tuition for education
This foundation propelled him to earn:
• Associate's Degree (Central Texas College)
• Bachelor's in Urban Planning (UCSD)
• Dual Master's from Stanford & MIT
🔑 The Housing Epiphany
While studying, Castañeda had a revelation:
"Housing is like wheels on a car—not the fanciest part, but without them, you're going nowhere."
Now as Executive Director of Common Wealth Development, he's transforming this insight into action:
• Managing 500+ affordable housing units
• Designing spaces with light, beauty and dignity
• Creating business/job programs for Madison's underserved
💡 His Vision
"Housing should be designed as if human beings matter—because they do. Every child deserves a place where they can imagine falling in love with life."
🌟 Why It Matters
Castañeda's journey proves stable housing isn't just shelter—it's the launchpad for education, security, and breaking cycles of poverty.
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