Ambre was just 12 when she started using drugs and alcohol, resulting in 10 different stints in juvenile hall. At the age of 18, those stints turned into jail, including two stays at the California Rehabilitation Center (CRC) in Norco. During her time at CRC, she participated in a drug program for prisoners, and maintained a period of sobriety after her release.

Everything came crashing down in 2000, however, when Ambre was sent to prison yet again. This time, it was for being the driver in a series of 26 armed robberies.

Ambre served 13 years for the armed robberies, and was paroled in 2013. While initially maintaining her sobriety, she eventually became drunk one night and was involved in an assault and battery. She almost had her third strike – which would have sent her to prison for life – but a judge recommended her for a special six month program, which she successfully completed.

A few years later, Ambre was involved in an abusive relationship and was almost beaten to death. It was after this incident that she moved to an Action Alliance home. As of November 16, 2023, she is 460 days sober.

All three of Ambre’s children, her five grandchildren (with one more on the way), and parents are all part of her new life. “Action Alliance has helped show me the way,” explains Ambre. “I have so many mentors here. I love the connections I’ve developed – they are also like family!”

Ambre works full-time in business-to-business sales, and is saving money to buy a home. She also participates in a domestic abuse support group, and has earned a counseling and advocate certification in domestic abuse. She is also grateful that Action Alliance trusts her to make wise decisions. As a house manager, she provides mentorship and support for the women living at her home, who “come to her all the time.”

At Action Alliance’s recent Octsoberfest event, Ambre was also asked to manage the event’s cash box. “Two years ago, I wouldn’t have been able to handle that responsibility,” she says. “I cried happy tears when I was asked!” “There’s a better life without drugs and alcohol,” states Ambre, who also has a deep faith in God. “I never knew another way for 40 years of my life – but now I don’t ever want to go back. The blessings are simply too great!”