My father passed away from Leukemia and though I may not understand the considerable amount of love many had for him, I was able to understand through the embrace of many such as the family at the Thea Bowman House. I am considerably privileged to have been a part of this program that seeks to help families from low income families, one parent families, and families who struggle economically.

 

I can share from my experience, when my father had passed, they helped my mother and my family in so many ways. With the early bus stop program, it allowed me to be inside of a warm building while having appropriate transportation to elementary school, middle school, and high school. While my mother was the only parent working, their after school program allowed us to be in a safe environment allowing my mother the sense of security that we were safe. Their homework program with volunteer staff allowed me to have someone to aid me in my homework when I was younger. I was not able to go to my parents because their English was limited. Aside from this, they also made sure we had a full stomach before going home and this I will cherish forever.

 

I was also given an opportunity to give back to the Thea Bowman House through a mission through our American Baptist Churches Association called the “Penny Project.” Although, I could never give back to them in comparison how they have touched my life of which I could not list them all. They were such a strong support group in our family's time of need. The adults there impacted my life in a sense I was able to become more accepting and tolerant of diversity. I became more culturally aware and culturally accepted. It was not just an after school program, but a strong foundation in my livelihood. When I had troubles, I had adults who wanted to listen to me, when I struggled, I had adults encourage me. They encouraged and embraced me. They were a family who taught me to grow and to create different perspectives instead of maintaining a limited mindset.

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From their teachings, I was able to embark on a journey of awareness. I hope to give back to my community by furthering my education in immigration law and foreign policy. I potentially aspire to give back to my community by working with refugees and immigrants through legal matters or study environmental law in the hopes of concentrating on sustainable development.