Many of you already know my story because I have always seen the benefit of sharing my experiences with others to help them. I have shared that I was someone who needed assistance, even when working multiple jobs. I have shared that even with assistance I have skipped meals and worried about covering bills. I have shared that when I was overwhelmed by all of this, I was able to find individuals and organizations in the community able to help. 

With their help, I was able to steady myself. I got the tools needed to succeed and was able to use them to change the story I share. With that change, I began to share more. I worked with local organizations to meet with state and federal lawmakers to discuss the successes of our city. 

I have always felt grateful for the opportunity to give back and fight alongside the organizations and communities that have helped me. My story has been one of how when communities believe in the abilities of the individual, they give them a chance to succeed.