I am a dedicated volunteer who works with several non-profit organizations. I like to consider myself a professional community servant. The revitalization of our community is imminently needed; however, it can only be made possible with the daily contributions of each and every citizen. As an ex con, I understand the plights facing the community everyday, specifically within the Black community. After a ten year hiatus, thanks to the Georgia Department of Corrections and my felonious actions, the time is well overdue for me to give back. I refuse to allow all that time to have been for naught. It's only right that I use my past as a way to relate to the younger generations, with the intent of offering guidance and foresight. I encourage everyone who desires to see change in their community and in these childrens' lives; Be the change you want to see.How did I end up volunteering for a living? No other employment opportunities. My dream for a community based nonprofit organization already existed; however, I needed an immediate source of income as much as the next person. I asked around for help and I got the best advice for me from an anonymous lady who commented on my Yahoo Answers page. What did she recommend? Volunteer. Supplement your time of unemployment with volunteer work. Build positive relationships with others. Glowing references can become invaluable when one's character is already under question. Plus, working for these organizations has provided excellent networking opportunities for me. If someone was to ask me what to do about their unemployment situation, I would recommend stay diligent in their job search and volunteer in the meantime. Along with the social and professional benefits of it, do I have to tell you personal benefits of it as well? Everyday I go home with a sense of fulfillment and gratification, knowing that I have positively influenced someone's life.
Currently, I am attending Westwood College for my Bachelors of Science in Computer Networking Management. School has also provided me with several meaningful acquaintances and friends. This is always a safe route to take because a Bachelors degree has become so commonplace that to truly compete in the job market, you really want at least a Masters degree. The competition is stiff and just as hungry as you are.
I'd like to add that I don't seek accolades and do not care about what anyone may think about my situation. This blog isn't for that. This blog is meant to offer a place where others may be able to come and be enlightened to the options that exist for them outside of committing a crime. All I desire is for each and every person who has read my blogs to set an example for the youth, whether you have children of your own or not, and help us all push for change in our communities. It takes a village to raise a child.
