Nashville Nonprofit Helps Traumatized Young Adult

Park Center supports 23-year-old Tiera Barton's journey to independence after a hellish childhood.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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From ages 4 to 8, Tiera Barton spent most of her life locked in a closet, enduring a traumatic childhood. Now 23, Barton credits the Nashville nonprofit Park Center for supporting her journey to independence and helping her heal from the abuse she suffered.

Why it matters

Tiera's story highlights the critical role nonprofits can play in supporting and empowering survivors of childhood trauma, helping them overcome adversity and build fulfilling lives.

The details

Barton says Park Center has "been with me every step of the way and made me feel heard the entire time." The nonprofit has provided Barton with counseling, job training, and other resources to aid her transition to independent living after her harrowing childhood experience of being locked in a closet for years.

  • From ages 4 to 8, Barton spent most of her life locked in a closet.

The players

Tiera Barton

A 23-year-old who endured a traumatic childhood of being locked in a closet from ages 4 to 8.

Park Center

A Nashville nonprofit that has supported Barton's journey to independence and healing after her childhood trauma.

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What they’re saying

“They've been with me every step of the way and made me feel heard the entire time.”

— Tiera Barton (The Tennessean)

The takeaway

Tiera's story underscores the vital role nonprofits can play in supporting and empowering survivors of childhood trauma, helping them overcome adversity and build fulfilling, independent lives.