At Caffè Lena’s TrueSongs 2025: Stories of Courage, Resilience & Community, Robert Winkler shared his powerful story of struggle, resilience, and hope—a journey that reminds us how quickly life can change, and how critical support and community are in finding your footing again. TrueSongs shines a light on the work of local nonprofits that help create a healthier, more compassionate community. The event pairs six local individuals—each supported by a local nonprofit that helped them overcome a major life challenge—with professional songwriters and storytellers who guide them in transforming their experience into an original true story and song performed on stage.
Robert, who holds a PhD in chemical engineering from RPI, spent a decade in the plastics industry before transitioning to teaching. He taught at several local colleges and eventually secured a full-time position at Aderandac Community College. Life seemed stable—until his fourth year at ACC, when he was denied tenure. In academia, this essentially means losing your job.
Despite part-time work and careful savings, he eventually ran out of money. Without income, he was evicted and became homeless at the start of 2015.
It was through the local shelters that Robert was connected with RISE. He began at a community residence, where he faced severe depression and isolation. “I didn’t socialize much at first. I just watched TV,” he recalled. Over time, he transitioned into RISE’s single-site and then scattered-site apartment programs, gradually gaining independence while continuing mental health support through the PROS program.
A pivotal moment in Robert’s recovery came when he joined the local senior center. Initially hesitant because he was the youngest there, he soon found community, connection, and purpose. COVID temporarily disrupted this routine, but when the center reopened, Robert became an active participant, eventually running the bingo games and forming meaningful relationships.
In 2022, Robert moved out of RISE housing and has been living independently in the community since. He now works at PROS as a peer specialist, supporting others with lived experience.
Reflecting on his journey, Robert said:
“What happened to me could happen to anybody. There are a lot of stereotypes about people who experience homelessness or struggle with depression. Those need to go away. The support I received from RISE helped me get back to being the person I used to be.”
Robert’s story is a powerful reminder that circumstances can change unexpectedly, but with compassion, support, and community, it’s possible to rebuild and thrive.
At RISE, we are honored to be part of journeys like Robert’s and remain committed to providing the resources, guidance, and care that help individuals regain independence and hope.
As a beautiful tribute to his journey, musician Rachel Sumner wrote a song inspired by Robert’s experiences, capturing both his struggles and triumphs.
To read more about Robert’s story: Robert: from Homelessness and Isolation to Vitality
At its heart, Caffè Lena’s TrueSongs shines a light on the work of local nonprofits that help create a healthier, more compassionate community. The event pairs six local individuals—each supported by a local nonprofit that helped them overcome a major life challenge—with professional songwriters and storytellers who guide them in transforming their experience into an original true story and song performed on stage.
To learn more about Caffè Lena: Caffè Lena – Event’s Page