From Poverty to Purpose: My Reason Behind Creating a Life-Changing Organization

There was a time in my life when I wasn’t sure how I would make it to the next day. I was raising a large family on $10 an hour, washing clothes by hand when my washer broke, and trying to stretch every dollar to cover food, bills, and gas. I knew what it felt like to go without, to pray for a breakthrough, and to carry the weight of survival on my shoulders.

But I also knew something else: that I couldn’t give up. Deep inside, there was a spark that told me this wasn’t the end of my story. That spark became my “why.” It pushed me to go back to school after dropping out in the 8th grade. It carried me through nights of exhaustion, years of sacrifice, and every obstacle along the way—until I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

And along the way, one unexpected gift changed everything: a reliable minivan.

At the time, I was doing everything I could to provide for my children, but without reliable transportation, every step forward was met with two steps back. When someone gifted me a minivan, it wasn’t just a vehicle—it was freedom. It meant I could get to work, get my children to school and appointments, and pursue opportunities I otherwise would have missed. That minivan was more than transportation—it was the tool that empowered me to start my road to success.

A Resource I Once Needed

That’s why I started the From Poverty to Purpose Foundation. Because sometimes all a person needs is not a handout, but a help up. Something as simple as reliable transportation, childcare, or a supportive community can be the turning point that changes the trajectory of a family’s future.

I know what it feels like to work 40+ hours a week and still not catch a break. I know what it feels like to be doing everything “right” and yet feel like the system is stacked against you. And I know the power of one act of kindness, one resource, one lifeline, to spark hope and create momentum.

Through From Poverty to Purpose, we provide more than just programs—we provide hope, tools, and community. From goal-setting workshops and coaching sessions to practical guides on healthcare, money management, and survival hacks, everything we do is about creating pathways forward.

Debunking the Myths of Poverty

Another reason I launched this foundation is because I’m tired of the myths and stigma surrounding poverty. Too often, people assume that those living in poverty are lazy, irresponsible, or unwilling to work. That could not be further from the truth.

Millions of Americans are working full-time jobs, sometimes two or three, and still can’t make ends meet. Poverty is not a reflection of someone’s work ethic—it’s the result of systemic barriers, low wages, and a lack of resources.

At From Poverty to Purpose, we want to shine a light on the truth: poverty is not a character flaw. Poverty is a circumstance. And circumstances can change when people are given tools, resources, and support.

The Mission

The mission of the From Poverty to Purpose Foundation is simple but powerful: to empower individuals to break barriers, find their purpose, and build a life they love.

Whether it’s offering a family a roadmap to financial stability, helping a young adult navigate healthcare barriers, or giving someone the courage to say “no” to people-pleasing and “yes” to their dreams, our goal is to transform lives—one step, one choice, one purpose at a time.

Why This Matters

I created this foundation because I don’t want anyone to feel as alone as I once did. No one should have to fight their way through poverty without support. No one should feel ashamed for working hard and still struggling. And no one should have to carry the weight of stigma on top of their survival.

When you partner with us—by joining our programs, donating, or even sharing our message—you’re helping create a lifeline for someone else. You’re also helping to end the stereotypes and false narratives that have silenced far too many voices.

From Poverty to Purpose isn’t just my story—it’s a story for anyone who believes in resilience, community, and transformation. My hope is that every person who connects with this foundation leaves knowing: your current situation is not your final destination.