When I first learned about this site and what they were doing today, I did not have to think twice about becoming involved. I was a child of poverty growing up here in the United States. It was just my mother and I, and she was too proud to ever ask for help. We were homeless twice before I was out of elementary school.
When I was almost 12 we moved from Los Angeles to Miami, Florida. Mom thought it would be easier for us there, because the cost of living was less. It was a little easier, but this was mainly because that is when I began working.
My first job was scraping barnacles off boats for the local fisherman. My hands would be bloody, but for a few hours work on a Saturday I earned enough money to buy food for us for the entire week. I went on to other jobs – mowing lawns, babysitting, and finally becoming a waitress – all before I was 14. So I understand poverty on a very deep and personal level.
Until I changed my life and began working online almost three years ago, I was ashamed to tell this story. I do not feel that way any more. Instead, I am part of several organizations, such as the Santa Clarita Rotary Club and Elk’s Lodge, that help people who are also in need.
I will be donating 100% of what I make online today to help fight poverty. I encourage you to help in some small way as well. Every person who contributes becomes part of the solution.
Connie… thanks for sharing your story with us! You are a wonderful example of how your background and circumstances does not define your life or what you achieve in life!
Our background should be seen as a huge motivator to get on and do what it is we desire in our life, rather than used as excuses why we haven’t achieved what we set out to.
Warmly
Jeanne