When Yvette Harris, Spanish Lake resident, first joined St. Louis Oasis, she didn’t expect it to change her life. But for her, St. Louis Oasis became more than just classes and community programs—it became a place that brought life back to her life.

“I was a little lost,” Yvette shared. “I had more time behind me than in front of me, and I didn’t know how to make a difference anymore. Oasis gave me that purpose again.”

Yvette’s journey with St. Louis Oasis began as a participant in the Give 5 volunteer program and later in balance classes. What she found went far beyond education and exercise.

“Oasis is more than a program,” she said. “It’s people from all walks of life—different backgrounds, different experiences—coming together like family. We help each other, we support each other, and we lift each other up.”

During her classes, Yvette saw firsthand how participants cared for one another. “One person’s grandson had cancer, and we all came together to support her. We made cards and checked in on her. It’s bigger than just learning or volunteering—it’s about being there for one another.”

For Yvette, being involved with St. Louis Oasis is also about continuing a family legacy—and creating new ones along the way. “My aunt was part of Oasis Tutoring 20 years ago,” she said proudly. “When I joined, it felt like things had come full circle. It’s generational—what she started, I’m continuing.”

That legacy now extends beyond her family tree to the community and confidence she’s built with Oasis. “They let us be ambassadors,” Yvette explained. “The women who run the programs are phenomenal. We get to stand up in front of the class, speak, and share. For many people, that’s life-changing—it helps us find our voices again.”

Her love for the program runs deep. “Oasis makes me feel like a butterfly—free, full of life, and surrounded by people who care,” she said with a smile. “It’s not just learning; it’s friendship, laughter, travel, support—it’s everything.”

And she’s not slowing down anytime soon. “As long as my health allows, I’ll keep coming back,” she said. “Because Oasis isn’t just a program. It’s a family. It’s freedom. It’s a new beginning.”

Find a class that sparks joy for you at stloasis.org/class.