From Brokenness to Purpose: My Journey of Resilience and Hope There was a time when I believed my life would end on the streets. After years of abandonment, trauma, and addiction, I had lost everything my home, my dignity, and my hope. For fifteen years, I lived in survival mode, numbing my pain with substances and wondering if I would ever escape the cycle that had consumed me. I remember nights sleeping in abandoned buildings, feeling invisible to the world, and mornings waking up wondering if I would make it through the day. Today, I stand six years clean, a mother of four incredible boys, a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, and a college sophomore pursuing a degree in psychology with a 4.0 GPA. My journey has been anything but easy, but it has shaped me into a woman of resilience, purpose, and unwavering determination. My story begins with childhood trauma. Being abandoned at a young age left deep emotional scars that I carried into adulthood. Without healthy coping mechanisms, I turned to drugs and alcohol to silence the pain. What started as an escape quickly became a prison. Addiction stole years of my life, leaving me homeless and hopeless. Yet even in my darkest moments, a small voice inside whispered that I was meant for more. That voice became louder the day I realized my children deserved a mother who could show them that healing is possible. Recovery was not a single moment it was a series of choices, each harder than the last. I entered treatment, faced my demons, and began the long process of rebuilding my life. I learned that resilience is not about never falling; it is about rising every time you do. Over the past six years, I have not only maintained sobriety but also dedicated myself to helping others find the same freedom. Working as a Peer Support Specialist allows me to turn my pain into purpose. Every day, I walk alongside individuals in crisis, offering hope and understanding because I have lived their struggle. This work is more than a job it is a calling. Education has become the cornerstone of my transformation. At 47 years old, I am a sophomore in college pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA while balancing school, work, and motherhood is a testament to my commitment and determination. My academic journey is proof that growth has no age limit. After earning my degree, I plan to obtain a master’s and become a Licensed Professional Counselor. My dream is to specialize in trauma and addiction therapy for low-income families those who often lack access to quality mental health care. I want to break generational cycles of pain and show others that healing is possible, no matter how broken life feels. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance; it symbolizes belief in my potential. It would allow me to continue my education without the constant fear of financial strain and bring me one step closer to fulfilling my mission. I envision a future where my story inspires others to rise from their own ashes, where my work helps families heal, and where my children see that perseverance can turn tragedy into triumph. When I look back at the woman I was the one who felt worthless and broken, I am overwhelmed by how far I have come. I have faced storms that could have destroyed me, yet I stand stronger than ever. My scars are not signs of weakness; they are proof of survival. They remind me that pain can be transformed into power and that every setback can become a stepping stone toward greatness. I want to use my life as living proof that no matter how far you fall, you can rise again. You can rewrite your story. Resilience, personal growth, academic achievement, and potential these are not just words on a page; they are the pillars of my life. I have fought for every inch of progress, and I will continue to fight not only for myself but for those who will one day sit across from me in a counseling session, searching for hope. I want to be that hope. I want to be the light in someone else’s darkness. And with your support, I will make that vision a reality.

Crisis work is more than a profession to me it’s a lifeline I once needed and now offer to others. I was abandoned as a child, left to navigate trauma and instability alone. That pain led me down a path of addiction, but it also planted the seed of resilience. Recovery wasn’t just about sobriety; it was about reclaiming my worth and rewriting my story. Today, I’m a single parent of four boys, a certified peer support specialist, and a first-generation college student pursuing my degree in psychology with a 4.0 GPA. My lived experiences have shaped every part of my decision to become a Licensed Professional Counselor, and they continue to influence the kind of therapist I strive to be: one who sees the whole person, not just their pain. I work on the 988 Suicide Prevention hotline and a mobile crisis team, responding to people in their most vulnerable moments. These aren’t just jobs they’re extensions of my purpose. I know what it’s like to feel hopeless, unheard, and alone. That’s why I show up with empathy, patience, and a deep understanding that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. My past allows me to connect with clients in ways that go beyond clinical training. I don’t just support them I walk with them, because I’ve been there. If I could change one thing about today’s mental healthcare system, it would be the lack of accessible, culturally competent care for marginalized communities. Too often, therapy is reserved for those with insurance, transportation, and the comfort of being understood. I envision a system where care is embedded in communities, where providers reflect the diversity of those they serve, and where healing is not a luxury but a right. This means funding grassroots programs, training therapists from underrepresented backgrounds, and removing systemic barriers that keep care out of reach. It means listening to voices like mine, and the countless others who’ve been silenced for too long. Teletherapy is one step toward that vision, and I see its impact daily at the facility where I work. Its greatest benefit is accessibility: clients can receive care from home, eliminating transportation and geographic barriers. For single parents, people with disabilities, and those in rural areas like mine, this is revolutionary. But teletherapy also presents real challenges. Many clients feel that face-to-face sessions allow for deeper emotional connection the ability to read body language, feel presence, and build trust more naturally. Some struggle with technology, lack privacy at home, or feel disconnected through a screen. To truly serve diverse communities, we must innovate beyond the virtual. This includes offering hybrid models, creating community-based telehealth hubs, and training providers to build authentic connections in virtual settings. Teletherapy should be a bridge, not a barrier. This scholarship isn’t just financial support it’s an investment in a future where therapists like me help reshape the mental health landscape. My identity as a first-generation student, a parent, a survivor, and a peer support specialist gives me a unique lens and a powerful voice. I represent the underrepresented, and I am committed to building a mental health system where every person feels seen and heard. With your support, I’ll continue building a legacy of healing not just for my family, but for every family who needs hope and understanding.

When I reflect on my journey, I see resilience, growth, and a deep commitment to helping others. My name is Jordan Vaughn, and I am a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a 4.0 GPA. As a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, I work every day to support individuals facing mental health challenges and addiction. This role is more than a job; it is a calling born from my own lived experience. After overcoming a 15-year struggle with addiction and homelessness, I have been clean for six years. My past was far from perfect, but it shaped who I am today. I am committed to excellence in everything I do from here on out, and I strive to turn every challenge into an opportunity for growth. Community service has always been at the heart of my work. Recently, I joined a local mission to help the homeless during the harsh winter months. Together with a few dedicated individuals, we have already received generous donations of blankets and other essentials to keep people warm. This effort reminds me that even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of hope. Whether through this mission, de-escalating a crisis, or connecting someone to resources, I strive to make an impact wherever I can. My goal is to earn a master’s degree and become a licensed professional counselor, focusing on low-income families and individuals battling addiction. This scholarship would help me continue my education and move closer to that dream. Financial support means less time worrying about tuition and more time devoted to serving my community and excelling academically. Like Kalia D. Davis, I believe in living with ambition and excellence. As a single mother of four boys, I understand the importance of setting an example of hard work and determination. Balancing school, work, and family is challenging, but I approach every responsibility with integrity and drive. I want my children and those I serve to see that no matter where you start, you can build a life of purpose. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of college but also honor Kalia’s legacy by allowing me to continue uplifting others. Her story inspires me to keep striving, to lead with kindness, and to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. With your support, I will carry forward her spirit of living, loving, laughing, and learning as I work to create a brighter future for my family and my community.

At forty-seven, I found myself standing at a crossroads. Life had already tested me in ways I never imagined, and yet I felt a persistent pull toward something greater, the chance to reshape my future through education. The courage to return to school did not come from a single moment, but from a lifetime of challenges that taught me resilience, determination, and the belief that I could create a better path for myself and my family. For many years, I worked in retail. That career taught me discipline, adaptability, and the importance of connecting with people from all walks of life. I learned how to manage long hours, balance competing demands, and remain calm under pressure. Retail gave me valuable skills in communication and problem-solving, but over time I realized that my work no longer reflected the person I had become or the impact I wanted to make. I wanted more than just a job; I wanted a vocation that allowed me to serve others, to make an impact, and to honor the struggles that shaped me. Returning to school was not simply about earning a degree it was about reclaiming my voice, investing in my future, and proving to myself that it is never too late to begin again. My courage also comes from surviving abandonment and addiction. Growing up without the support of parents forced me to rely on resilience at an early age, and later in life, I faced the painful reality of addiction. Overcoming those struggles was not easy, but they gave me a deeper understanding of perseverance, healing, and the importance of second chances. Those experiences now fuel my determination to help others who face similar battles, and they remind me daily that hardship can be transformed into strength. Of course, the decision to return to school was not easy. Balancing responsibilities as a parent and provider while committing to rigorous coursework required sacrifice. There were moments of doubt, nights spent studying after long shifts, and days when exhaustion threatened to derail my progress. But courage is not the absence of fear; it is the decision to move forward despite it. Each challenge became proof that I was capable of more than I believed. Each small victory passing an exam, completing a project, or simply showing up reinforced my determination to keep going. Today, I am proud to say that I am earning my degree in psychology and have maintained a 4.0 GPA, a reflection of the dedication and perseverance that fuel my journey. What truly sustains me is the legacy I want to build. I carry with me the memory of loved ones who faced adversity with dignity and strength, and I strive to honor them by continuing to push forward. I also want my children to see that education is not bound by age or circumstance. By returning to school at forty-seven, I hope to model resilience, ambition, and the belief that with hard work, anything is possible. Returning to school has given me more than academic knowledge; it has given me hope, purpose, and the conviction that I can create lasting change. My courage comes from the hardships I have endured, the dreams I refuse to abandon, and the people I love who inspire me to keep moving forward. With resilience as my foundation, I am ready to embrace this new chapter and prove that it is never too late to rise, rebuild, and succeed.

Abandoned at an early age, I grew up feeling unwanted and alone. That emptiness followed me into adulthood, and addiction became my escape. My brother and I shared that struggle, using together to numb the pain of our past. When he died from an overdose, the grief was unbearable. Instead of pulling me out, his death drove me deeper into addiction. I felt hopeless, angry, and convinced that life had nothing left for me. But one day, I had enough. I looked at my four sons and realized they deserved a mother who was present, not lost in despair. That moment sparked a determination I didn’t know I had. Recovery wasn’t easy, it demanded relentless willpower, humility, and the courage to rebuild from nothing. I entered treatment, fought through withdrawals, and faced the pain I had been running from for years. Today, I have been sober for six years. Every day is a choice, and every choice reminds me why I started. Education has given me a new sense of direction and purpose. When I enrolled in college, I wasn’t just chasing a degree I was reclaiming my life. I am now a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a 4.0 GPA. For someone who once believed she had no future, every class, every assignment, and every grade is proof that transformation is possible. Education has taught me that knowledge is power, but it is also healing. Through courses in abnormal psychology and counseling techniques, I have learned how trauma shapes behavior and how evidence-based interventions can change lives. These lessons have deepened my understanding of my own journey and strengthened my commitment to helping others. College has also given me confidence I never thought I would have. Standing in front of a classroom to present research or writing a paper that earns top marks reminds me that I am capable of more than survival, I am capable of success. Education has shown me that perseverance pays off and that growth often comes from the hardest battles. It has given me a voice, and now I want to use that voice to advocate for those who feel unheard. My experiences have shaped my ambitions in profound ways. I know what it feels like to be trapped in a cycle of poverty and addiction, and I know how isolating it can be to believe there is no way out. That is why I want to specialize in addiction counseling and trauma-informed care. I envision creating programs that provide not only therapy but also practical resources like job training, parenting support, and community outreach because recovery is about more than abstinence; it’s about rebuilding a life. I want to work in underserved communities where resources are scarce and stigma is high, because those are the places where hope is needed most. My journey has not been without obstacles. Balancing full-time work, school, and parenting four boys is challenging. There are nights when exhaustion feels overwhelming, but I remind myself why I started: to create a better life for my children and to help others find hope. I now work full-time as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, supporting people in their darkest moments. When someone sees that I’ve been where they are and made it out, it gives them strength to keep fighting. That connection, the ability to turn my pain into purpose is what drives me forward. My ultimate goal is to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I want to serve low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. I know firsthand how poverty, trauma, and abandonment can fuel substance abuse, and I want to break that cycle for others. By combining my lived experience with professional training, I can make a lasting impact in communities that need it most. Sobriety has taught me resilience, empathy, and the value of second chances. It has also shown me that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances it’s about creating a life worth living. For me, that means turning pain into purpose and using my story to help others find theirs. This scholarship would not only support my education but also honor the memory of those, like my brother, whose lives were cut short by addiction. I carry their stories with me as a reminder of why this work matters. Education has not only given me knowledge it has given me hope, direction, and the ability to transform pain into purpose. Every class I take is a step toward breaking cycles of addiction and poverty, and every achievement reminds me that who I am becoming matters just as much as where I am going. With your support, I can continue this journey and use my education to create a future where others find the same hope I once thought was lost. This scholarship is more than financial assistance, it is an investment in change, resilience, and the belief that second chances can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Heroin nearly stole my life. Losing my brother to an overdose almost finished the job. Abandoned at an early age, I grew up feeling unwanted and alone. That emptiness followed me into adulthood, and heroin became my escape. My brother and I shared that struggle, using together to numb the pain of our past. When he died from an overdose, the grief was unbearable. Instead of pulling me out, his death drove me deeper into addiction. I felt hopeless, angry, and convinced that life had nothing left for me. But one day, I had enough. I looked at my four sons and realized they deserved a mother who was present, not lost in despair. That moment sparked a determination I didn’t know I had. Recovery wasn’t easy, it demanded relentless willpower, humility, and the courage to rebuild from nothing. I entered treatment, fought through withdrawals, and faced the pain I had been running from for years. Today, I have been clean for six years. Every day is a choice, and every choice reminds me why I started. What keeps me motivated is knowing my story can give hope to others. I now work full-time as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, supporting people in their darkest moments. When someone sees that I’ve been where they are and made it out, it gives them strength to keep fighting. That connection the ability to turn my pain into purpose is what drives me forward. My ambition doesn’t stop at my own recovery. I am a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a 4.0 GPA, and I plan to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). My goal is to serve low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. I know firsthand how poverty, trauma, and abandonment can fuel substance abuse, and I want to break that cycle for others. By combining my lived experience with professional training, I can make a lasting impact in communities that need it most. Sobriety has taught me resilience, empathy, and the value of second chances. It has also shown me that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances it’s about creating a life worth living. For me, that means turning pain into purpose and using my story to help others find theirs. This scholarship would not only support my education but also honor the memory of those, like Steven and my brother, whose lives were cut short by addiction. I carry their stories with me as a reminder of why this work matters. Addiction destroys lives, but recovery proves that hope can prevail. I am committed to being a beacon of that hope for my children, for the people I serve, and for the countless others who deserve a chance to reclaim their lives. My journey is far from over, but every step forward brings me closer to my dream of becoming an LPC and making a difference where it matters most.

My “Pie in the Sky” dream is to become a licensed professional counselor who helps individuals and families break free from addiction and heal the deep wounds of childhood trauma. This dream feels both exhilarating and just out of reach because it demands years of education, resilience, and courage, but it is the vision that fuels my every step. The spark for this dream came from my own story. For 15 years, I battled addiction and homelessness, a struggle rooted in abandonment and trauma I experienced as a child. For a long time, I believed I was beyond repair. But six years ago, I made the decision to fight for my life, and for my four sons. Through recovery, therapy, and the unwavering support of a compassionate community, I discovered something life-changing: healing is possible, and no one is beyond hope. That realization ignited a passion in me to help others who feel lost and unseen, because I know what it’s like to stand in that darkness and believe there’s no way out. Returning to college was not an easy decision. At 47, I was hesitant and questioned whether I belonged in a classroom again. But something inside me kept whispering, press on. That voice reminded me that it’s never too late to chase a dream that matters. Today, I am a sophomore working toward my bachelor’s degree in psychology while balancing full-time work and single motherhood. Every assignment I complete and every challenge I overcome is proof that courage can rewrite the story. Currently, I work full-time as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, supporting people in their most vulnerable moments. This work has shown me the power of empathy and connection, and it has strengthened my resolve to pursue my ultimate goal: earning a master’s degree in counseling and becoming an LPC who serves low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction. I want to create a safe space where people can reclaim their lives and rewrite their stories just as I have. The steps to reach this dream are challenging, but I am committed. After completing my undergraduate degree, I will apply to a master’s program in counseling, followed by licensure. Along the way, I plan to deepen my experience in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care, building the skills I need to make a lasting impact. This dream matters because it is bigger than me it is about breaking cycles of pain and creating pathways to hope. I believe that when women dream boldly and act with courage, we not only transform our own lives but also inspire others to believe in what’s possible. My journey has taught me resilience and the truth that growth happens through community and accountability. With every class I take and every person I support, I am moving closer to my “Pie in the Sky” goal. I may not have everything figured out yet, but I have the heart, the drive, and the vision to keep going. This scholarship would help me take the next courageous step toward becoming the therapist I was meant to be—a woman who turns her pain into purpose and helps others find their way to healing.

Everyone deserves a second chance. For me, that chance came after fifteen years of addiction and homelessness, a period that nearly cost me everything. I was abandoned as a child, and the pain of that experience shaped much of my early life. But six years ago, I made the decision to change. Today, I am a single mother of four boys, a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, and a college student pursuing a degree in psychology. My goal is to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor so I can help others who feel hopeless find the same second chance I was given. I want to make this change because I know firsthand what it feels like to be broken and believe there is no way forward. My past taught me that cycles of trauma and addiction can be shattered, but only through determination and the right support systems you can rise again. That is why I am passionate about mental health and recovery work. I want to be the person who helps others discover their own strength and realize that change is possible. The steps I have taken so far reflect my commitment. I have been clean for six years, and during that time, I have rebuilt my life from the ground up. I work full-time on a mobile crisis team and on the 988 Suicide Prevention hotline, supporting individuals in their darkest moments. I returned to school as a 47-year-old sophomore, balancing classes with parenting and work. Every psychology course I take brings me closer to my dream of becoming a therapist for low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction. These steps have not been easy, but they have been worth it because they move me toward a life of service. This scholarship would make a tremendous difference. As a single mother and full-time student, finances are a constant challenge. Receiving the Second Chance Scholarship would ease that burden, allowing me to focus on my studies and accelerate my progress toward becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. More importantly, it would honor the spirit of second chances by helping me continue my journey of transformation and service. Paying it forward is not just a plan it is my life’s mission. I already mentor individuals in recovery through my work as a Peer Specialist, and I intend to expand that impact as a therapist. I want to create programs that provide counseling and support for families affected by addiction and trauma. I also hope to advocate for policies that make mental health care accessible to everyone, regardless of income or background. By sharing my story and offering guidance, I can help others believe that change is possible. One second chance can create a ripple effect, and I want to be part of that cycle of hope. My story is not over yet; it is just beginning! Nelson Vecchione believed in the power of second chances. This scholarship would help me live out that belief every day, turning my own redemption into an opportunity for others to heal and thrive.

Part 1: I am a single mother of four, a survivor of addiction, and a Certified Peer Support Specialist. My journey began with abandonment and being raised by my grandmother, followed by 15 years of addiction and homelessness. Six years ago, I chose recovery a decision that saved my life and gave me the strength to help others. I lost my brother to addiction, a devastating loss that fuels my commitment to breaking generational cycles and creating hope. Today, I answer calls for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline with Burrell Behavioral Health, offering empathy and support to those in crisis. I’m also pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology, with the goal of becoming a therapist who serves low-income families and individuals battling addiction. My values, compassion, perseverance, and service are rooted in lived experience. I believe that healing begins with human connection, and I’m passionate about creating safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Part 2: To me, empathy means meeting people where they are with no judgment, only understanding. It’s the ability to listen deeply, feel with someone, and offer support that honors their truth. Empathy is not just a feeling; it’s a practice. It’s what allows us to connect, to build trust, and to help others heal. In my role as a Certified Peer Support Specialist, empathy is the foundation of everything I do. When someone calls the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, they’re often at their lowest point. I don’t offer quick fixes I offer presence. I share my story when it helps, and I listen when they need to be heard. My lived experience with addiction, homelessness, and loss allows me to understand pain without flinching. I’ve been there. That’s why I can hold space for others with compassion and clarity. As I pursue my degree in psychology, I carry this empathy into my studies and future career. I plan to become a therapist who serves low-income families and individuals battling addiction, people who are often overlooked or misunderstood. I will ensure my work is human-centered by always prioritizing dignity, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care. I believe in asking, not assuming. In listening, not labeling. In creating environments where people feel safe to be vulnerable. That’s how healing happens. I also believe that living healthy isn’t just about emotional wellness, it includes physical care too. Eating healthy and exercising are key to building a strong foundation for long-term wellness. I encourage these habits in my own life and in the lives of those I support, because they reinforce self-worth and resilience. Empathy is the bridge between pain and possibility. It’s what helped me rebuild my life, and it’s what I offer to others every day.

My brother and I were abandoned by our parents when we were young. That kind of loss leaves a scar it teaches you to survive before you’ve had a chance to grow, and it forces you to rely on each other in ways most siblings never have to. He was my protector, my confidant, and the one person who truly understood the weight I carried. We didn’t have much, but we had each other. That bond became our lifeline. When he died of an overdose, my world collapsed. It wasn’t just the loss of a sibling it was the loss of the only person who had walked through the fire with me. The grief was overwhelming. I felt like I was drowning in questions, guilt, and silence. There was no guidebook for surviving that kind of pain, especially when you’ve already spent your life learning to live without the support of parents. But grief, as I’ve learned, can be a teacher. It taught me empathy that runs deep. It taught me how to sit with someone’s pain without trying to fix it, how to listen without judgment, and how to hold space for healing. That’s why I became a certified peer support specialist. I now work on a mobile crisis team and answer calls for the 988 hotline, offering hope to people in their darkest moments just like I once needed. My brother’s death and the life we shared before it shaped my purpose. I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with plans to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. I want to help people who’ve been abandoned, who’ve lost someone to addiction, who carry invisible wounds. I want to be the kind of support we both needed but didn’t always have. Grief doesn’t go away. It changes shape. Some days it’s quiet, like a shadow. Other days it hits like a wave. But I’ve learned to carry it with purpose. My brother’s story didn’t end with his death it lives on in the work I do, in the lives I touch, and in the legacy I’m building for my own children. I’m not just surviving grief. I’m transforming it into something that heals. This scholarship would not only honor my brother’s memory it would help me continue the work that gives my pain meaning. I believe that healing is possible, even after the deepest losses. I’ve seen it in the people I support, and I’ve felt it in myself. My journey is far from easy, but it’s rooted in love, resilience, and the belief that even broken beginnings can lead to powerful futures.

Being a first-generation college student has shaped every aspect of my career goals and personal mission. Growing up in a low-income household without a roadmap for higher education, I learned early that perseverance and resourcefulness would be my greatest tools. My parents didn’t have the opportunity to attend college, so navigating this journey has required me to break cycles and create new possibilities not just for myself, but for my four sons and the families I hope to serve in the future. My experiences with adversity have fueled my passion for mental health. After surviving abandonment, addiction, and homelessness, I rebuilt my life and have been clean for six years. Today, I work full-time as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, supporting individuals in their darkest moments. These experiences have shown me how critical mental health resources are, especially for low-income families who often face barriers to care. As a first-generation student, I see education as the key to transforming those barriers into bridges. My ultimate goal is to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma and addiction. I want to provide affordable, compassionate care to individuals who feel forgotten by the system. Being first-generation student means I understand the weight of generational struggles, poverty, limited access, and the fear of dreaming too big. It also means I carry the responsibility to prove that those dreams are possible. Education is more than a personal achievement; it’s a way to create ripple effects of hope. Every class I take and every challenge I overcome reminds me that I am paving a path for others who share my story. I want my sons to see that resilience and education can rewrite a family’s narrative. I want my clients to know that healing is possible, no matter where you start. Being a first-generation college student doesn’t just influence my career goals it defines them. It drives me to turn my struggles into strength and my education into empowerment for others. This scholarship would help me continue that journey and bring me closer to a future where I can make mental health care accessible to those who need it most.

Her story resonates deeply with me, not only as a peer support specialist but as someone who has walked through adversity and emerged with a calling to serve. My career goal of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor is rooted in the same values Lieba embodied: compassion, justice, and a belief in the transformative power of empathy. Gifted children like Lieba often carry emotional depth that exceeds their years. Their sensitivity, creativity, and intellect can make them targets for bullying, isolation, or misdiagnosis. I’ve seen this firsthand both in my own children and in the youth I support through crisis work. Many gifted kids are labeled as “too much” or “too different,” when in reality, they are simply wired to feel and think more intensely. These children need advocates who understand their complexity and can help them navigate a world that often misunderstands them. As a peer support specialist on a mobile crisis team and the 988 hotline, I’ve learned how to listen beyond words. I’ve supported children in emotional distress, teens grappling with identity, and families overwhelmed by systems that don’t fit their needs. I’ve seen how trauma can silence a gifted child’s voice and how the right support can help them reclaim it. My lived experience allows me to connect authentically, offering hope not as a theory but as a truth I’ve lived. My long-term goal is to specialize in trauma-informed care for gifted youth, especially those from low-income families. These children often fall through the cracks misdiagnosed, underserved, or dismissed. I want to create spaces where their emotional intensity is honored, their intellect is nurtured, and their uniqueness is celebrated. I envision counseling that integrates creative expression, sensory awareness, and social-emotional learning tailored to gifted minds. I want to help children like Lieba feel seen, heard, and safe enough to shine. Lieba’s story reminds me that advocacy starts with small acts of courage standing up on a bus, speaking truth to power, choosing kindness over conformity. As a future counselor, I will carry that spirit into every session, every classroom, and every community I serve. I will work to dismantle stigma, build bridges between gifted children and their environments, and ensure that no child is punished for being extraordinary. This scholarship would not only support my education it would amplify a mission I already live daily. I am committed to fostering the social-emotional well-being and intellectual growth of gifted children, especially those who are misunderstood. Like Lieba, I believe in a world where sensitivity is strength, justice is personal, and every child is treated as a masterpiece of creation.

The first time my grandmother looked at me and asked, “Who are you?” I felt the ground shift beneath me. This was the woman who raised me when life felt impossible, who held my hand through storms of addiction and despair, and who reminded me that I was worth saving. Watching her slip in and out of reality because of early-stage dementia has been one of the most painful experiences of my life. It is like losing her in fragments one memory at a time while still seeing her face every day. That moment didn’t just break my heart; it deepened my understanding of mental health and strengthened my resolve to dedicate my life to helping others navigate the invisible battles of the mind. My journey with mental health began long before my grandmother’s diagnosis. I grew up in chaos, abandoned as a child, and later spent fifteen years trapped in addiction and homelessness. Six years ago, I fought my way back to sobriety, determined to rewrite my story. Today, I work as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, supporting individuals in their darkest moments. I know what it feels like to lose hope and what it takes to find it again. That lived experience fuels my passion for psychology and my ambition to become a licensed therapist serving low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction and trauma. When dementia entered my family, it brought new lessons. I learned that mental health is not just about emotional resilience; it is also about the fragile biology of the brain. Dementia is cruel it steals memories, independence, and identity. For my grandmother, it means forgetting birthdays, misplacing familiar faces, and drifting between clarity and confusion. For our family, it means constant adaptation: creating safe spaces, repeating conversations, and grieving losses that come in slow motion. This experience has shown me the urgency of research and advocacy in aging and cognitive disorders. It has also taught me patience, empathy, and the power of presence skills I carry into my work every day. Despite the heartbreak, I see purpose in this struggle. My grandmother’s diagnosis has reinforced my drive to pursue higher education and specialize in mental health care. I am currently a sophomore maintaining a 4.0 GPA in psychology, with plans to earn a master’s degree and LPC. My ambition is not just personal; it is rooted in impact. I want to bridge gaps in care for families like mine, where dementia and addiction collide with poverty and limited resources. I want to be the voice that says, “You are not alone,” and the professional who turns that promise into action. This scholarship represents more than financial support it represents hope for a future where mental health and dementia care are prioritized. By investing in students like me, you are investing in communities that desperately need advocates and healers. My grandmother may not always remember my name, but I will never forget the lessons her journey has taught me: resilience, compassion, and the urgency of understanding the mind. Those lessons will guide me as I work to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

My name is Jordan Vaughn, and my journey toward becoming a mental health professional has been shaped by resilience and a deep commitment to serving others. For fifteen years, I battled addiction and homelessness experiences that taught me the devastating impact of untreated mental health challenges. Six years ago, I began my recovery, and today I am proud to live a life centered on hope and service. Currently, I am a psychology major with a 4.0 GPA and work full-time as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team. In this role, I meet individuals in their most vulnerable moments, offering support and resources that can change the trajectory of their lives. My lived experience allows me to connect with clients in a way that fosters trust and compassion qualities essential to meaningful servitude. One of the most impactful ways I have served my community is through volunteering with organizations that support people experiencing homelessness. Because I know what it feels like to be without a home, I offer more than resources I offer understanding and encouragement. I have helped individuals secure shelter, access mental health services, and regain hope. These moments remind me that service is not just about meeting needs; it is about restoring dignity and creating a sense of belonging for those who feel forgotten. Beyond volunteering, I strive to be a voice for change. I advocate for better access to mental health care and work to reduce stigma in my community. Whether through public outreach or one-on-one conversations, I believe education and empathy are powerful tools for transformation. Every interaction is an opportunity to plant seeds of hope and resilience. I also mentor individuals in early recovery, guiding them toward stability and self-sufficiency. Watching someone reclaim their life is the most rewarding outcome of service. My ultimate goal is to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma and addiction. I plan to work with low-income families and individuals who often face barriers to care. By combining education, professional experience, and lived experience, I aim to create safe spaces where healing is possible. Receiving the Emma Jane Hastie Scholarship would ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to continue serving my community. Emma Jane Hastie’s legacy of selfless service inspires me to dedicate my life to helping others. With your support, I can carry forward that vision transforming lives just as mine was transformed.

Sepsis is a silent killer that claims hundreds of thousands of lives each year, yet few understand its devastating impact until it touches their family. I learned this firsthand when my grandfather passed away from sepsis. His decline began with what seemed like a simple woodworking accident that caused a traumatic brain injury. That injury led to multiple surgeries and months of recovery, but complications arose. I remember him always hooked up to IV medications, fighting to stay alive. Despite every effort, sepsis spread through his body. He also developed pneumonia, which made his condition even more critical and ultimately led to him being placed on life support. In those final days, I am not sure my grandfather truly understood what was happening, and that uncertainty still weighs heavily on me. Eventually, my family faced the hardest decision we’ve ever had to make. Watching my grandfather’s battle taught me how fragile life can be and how quickly circumstances can change. It was heartbreaking to see someone so strong become so vulnerable. The experience left me with a deep sense of urgency to live with purpose and to help others who face overwhelming challenges. It also opened my eyes to the importance of advocacy and education about conditions like sepsis that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. This loss was not the only hardship I have faced. My life has been marked by many struggles, addiction, homelessness, and abandonment, but losing my grandfather added another layer of grief that tested my resilience. Each loss has shaped me into someone who values life deeply and refuses to give up, no matter how heavy the burden. These experiences have fueled my determination to rise above pain and create a future where I can help others do the same. This experience shaped my ambition and drive. I am now pursuing a degree in psychology with the goal of becoming a therapist who supports families through trauma and loss. I want to help others navigate the emotional aftermath of life-changing conditions like sepsis. My grandfather’s story fuels my determination to make an impact not only by providing mental health care but also by advocating for education and awareness about conditions that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue my education while honoring my grandfather’s memory. It would ease the financial burden and help me turn pain into purpose. My dream is to transform my experience into hope for others, ensuring that families facing similar challenges have the support and understanding they need.

Being the sole caretaker of my grandmother while raising four boys and working full-time has been the most challenging and rewarding experience of my life. My grandmother’s greatest fear is living in a nursing home, and I have promised to honor her wishes. This commitment has shaped my daily life and taught me lessons that go far beyond caregiving. Every day begins with worry. As I leave for work, I wonder if she will be safe while I’m gone. When hospital stays become necessary, the stress multiplies. I juggle work, school, and family while sitting by her bedside, often questioning whether I can afford the time off. The guilt of not being everywhere at once weighs heavily: guilt for not being with her every moment, guilt for missing time with my children, and guilt for feeling overwhelmed. Yet, through these challenges, I have grown. Caregiving has taught me patience not just with my grandmother, but with myself and my children. It has taught me gratitude for the good days and resilience during the hard ones. I have mastered time management, balancing appointments, homework, and family needs with determination. Most importantly, I have learned the true meaning of love and commitment. My grandmother gave me stability when I needed it most, and now I give her the same. Through this experience, I have developed a deep sense of compassion for others who face similar challenges. Caring for my grandmother has opened my eyes to the struggles of families balancing work, caregiving, and financial stress. I understand the fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty that come with these responsibilities, and it has inspired me to approach people with empathy and respect. This compassion drives my passion for mental health and counseling. I want to be a source of hope and understanding for those who feel overwhelmed, just as I have felt. My goal is to turn my personal challenges into a professional mission to help others navigate life’s hardest moments with dignity and support. This experience has strengthened my resolve to pursue a degree in psychology and become a therapist for families facing similar struggles. I understand firsthand the emotional and financial strain caregiving can bring, and I want to help others navigate these challenges with compassion and hope. My journey is not easy, but it is meaningful. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue honoring my grandmother’s wishes while pursuing my education. It would ease the financial burden and give me the opportunity to focus on my studies, so I can turn my experiences into a career that helps others. I am committed to making a difference not just for my family, but for every family who needs support and understanding.

I chose the path of psychology not just to understand the mind, but to help heal it. As a certified peer support specialist working on a mobile crisis team and the 988 hotline, I walk alongside people in their darkest moments. I know those moments intimately. For over ten years, I struggled silently with my own mental health, carrying pain that few could see. I was abandoned at an early age and turned to drugs to cope with that pain. But today I am 6 years clean from drugs, I stand with courage not just for myself, but for others. My lived experience fuels my advocacy, and I’ve turned survival into service. In my role at Burrell Behavioral Health, I respond to individuals in crisis whether through emergency dispatches or hotline calls offering empathy, de-escalation, and hope. I’ve supported people through suicidal ideation, addiction, trauma, and grief, often drawing on my own journey to build trust and connection. Every shift reminds me that healing is possible, and that no one should have to face their pain alone. Ending the stigma starts with honest conversations ones that acknowledge pain without shame and healing without judgment. Every time I share my story or support someone in crisis, I’m challenging the silence that keeps so many suffering alone. Mental health is not a weakness, it’s a part of being human, and the more we normalize that truth, the more lives we save. I’m currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Columbia College, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while working full-time and raising four incredible boys. My short-term goal is to complete my degree while continuing to serve those in crisis. Long-term, I plan to become a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in trauma recovery for low-income families. I want to offer the kind of compassionate, informed care I once needed myself, and to break cycles of pain with cycles of healing. Mental health challenges don’t just affect individuals, they ripple through families, communities, and futures. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I’ve faced the uphill battle of pursuing education while managing emotional well-being. But I’ve also seen how support, empathy, and advocacy can change lives. That’s why I’m committed to being that support for others. Thank you for honoring Ethan To’s legacy and for supporting students like me. Your commitment to reducing stigma and uplifting those affected by mental health struggles is more than generous it’s transformative. You’re helping us turn pain into purpose, and I’m deeply grateful.

Growing up, I faced abandonment and emotional neglect that left deep scars. With no one to help me process the pain, I turned to drugs not out of defiance, but as a way to survive. My mental health struggles went undiagnosed for years, buried beneath silence and stigma. I didn’t have the language to describe what I was feeling, only the overwhelming need to escape it. But mental health doesn’t stay hidden. It affects every part of your life your relationships, your decisions, and even your physical health. I lived with chronic pain that mirrored the emotional wounds I carried. It wasn’t until I began seeking help that I realized how deeply intertwined our mental and physical well-being truly are. Healing wasn’t immediate. It came in layers through therapy, reflection, and the hard work of rebuilding trust in myself. I learned to name my trauma, confront my addiction, and begin the long journey toward recovery. That journey has shaped not only who I am, but who I strive to be. Today, I work on a mobile crisis team and answer calls on the 988 suicide and crisis hotline. I meet people in their most vulnerable moments and offer the compassion I once needed myself. I’ve turned my lived experience into a source of strength, empathy, and advocacy. Every call I take is a reminder that no one should have to suffer alone. I am here to show everyone no matter your circumstance you can rise above it I’m currently completing my bachelor’s degree in psychology, with plans to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). My goal is to serve individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and to provide family counseling that helps break generational cycles of trauma. I believe deeply in the power of connection, and in the healing that comes from being truly seen and heard. The Worldwide Mental Health Foundation’s mission to support aspiring mental health professionals and expand access to care aligns perfectly with my own. I am committed to raising awareness by sharing my story, challenging stigma, and advocating for trauma-informed, culturally competent care. I want to be a voice for those who feel voiceless, and a guide for those still finding their way. This scholarship would not only support my education it would help me continue building a legacy of healing, hope, and resilience. I’ve walked through the fire, and now I walk beside others, helping them find their way out.

For the past six years, I have dedicated my life to helping others navigate mental health challenges. As a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, I provide immediate support to individuals in crisis, offering empathy, resources, and hope during their most vulnerable moments. My own journey through addiction and homelessness gives me a unique ability to connect with those who feel unseen and unheard. I understand the stigma and barriers that prevent people from seeking help, and I work every day to break those barriers by fostering trust and compassion. One of the most impactful parts of my role is responding to calls where someone is experiencing severe emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. In these moments, I use active listening and grounding techniques to de-escalate the situation and help the individual feel safe enough to accept further care. I also connect clients to long-term resources such as therapy, housing programs, and support groups. These experiences have taught me that mental health advocacy is not just about providing services, it’s about restoring dignity and hope. My commitment extends beyond my professional role. As a single mother of four, I strive to model resilience and emotional well-being for my children, proving that recovery and growth are possible. Balancing full-time work and school while maintaining a 4.0 GPA demonstrates my drive to succeed not just for myself, but for the communities I serve. Every challenge I face fuels my determination to break cycles of trauma and addiction, not only for my family but for countless individuals who feel trapped by circumstances beyond their control. I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College, with plans to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor. My future career will focus on trauma-informed care for low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction. I aim to create safe spaces where people can heal, learn coping strategies, and rebuild their lives. By combining academic knowledge with lived experience, I will continue advocating for mental health equity and expanding access to care. This scholarship would help me stay on track toward my goals while reducing financial stress, allowing me to focus on what matters most: making a lasting impact in mental health advocacy. My ambition is not only to change lives but to change the narrative around mental health one person, one family, one community at a time. I believe that empathy and education together can transform the way we approach mental health, and I am committed to being part of that change.

For the past six years, I have dedicated my life to helping others navigate mental health challenges. As a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, I provide immediate support to individuals in crisis, offering empathy, resources, and hope during their most vulnerable moments. My own journey through addiction and homelessness gives me a unique ability to connect with those who feel unseen and unheard. I understand the stigma and barriers that prevent people from seeking help, and I work every day to break those barriers by fostering trust and compassion. My commitment extends beyond my professional role. As a single mother of four, I strive to model resilience and emotional well-being for my children, proving that recovery and growth are possible. Balancing full-time work and school while maintaining a 4.0 GPA demonstrates my drive to succeed not just for myself, but for the communities I serve. I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College, with plans to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor. My future career will focus on trauma-informed care for low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction. I aim to create safe spaces where people can heal, learn coping strategies, and rebuild their lives. By combining academic knowledge with lived experience, I will continue advocating for mental health equity and expanding access to care. This scholarship would help me stay on track toward my goals while reducing financial stress, allowing me to focus on what matters most: making a lasting impact in mental health advocacy. My ambition is not only to change lives but to change the narrative around mental health, one person, one family, one community at a time.

I believe I deserve the Champions of a New Path Scholarship because my life embodies resilience, transformation, and a relentless commitment to helping others. For fifteen years, I battled addiction and homelessness, a struggle rooted in childhood abandonment and trauma. Six years ago, I made the decision to change my life. Today, I am proud to say I have been clean for six years, and I am a full-time Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, using my lived experience to guide others toward hope and recovery. What sets me apart is not just my academic success a 4.0 GPA as a sophomore in psychology at Columbia College, but the depth of my journey and the impact I strive to make. I am a single mother of four boys, balancing parenting, work, and school while maintaining academic excellence. Every challenge I face fuels my determination to break cycles of trauma and addiction, not only for my family but for the countless individuals who feel trapped by circumstances beyond their control. My ultimate goal is to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma and addiction for low-income families. I know firsthand how poverty and untreated mental health issues perpetuate suffering. By combining my education with my lived experience, I aim to create a safe space for healing and empowerment. This scholarship would help me continue my education without sacrificing the stability I’ve worked so hard to build for my children. Ambition, drive, and impact define my path. I am not just pursuing a degree; I am building a future where my story becomes a beacon of hope for others. I have walked through darkness and emerged stronger, and now I dedicate my life to guiding others toward light. That is why I believe I am uniquely qualified for this scholarship.

Service is more than an action it is the heartbeat of my life. After fifteen years of addiction and homelessness, I found recovery six years ago. That journey taught me that the greatest gift we can give is hope, and it inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others find theirs. Today, I work as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team. Every day, I meet people in their darkest moments those battling addiction, mental health challenges, and overwhelming despair. I share my story, not to relive my past, but to show that change is possible. I help individuals navigate resources, advocate for their needs, and remind them that they are not alone. Beyond my professional role, I actively volunteer in my community. Currently, I am organizing a winter outreach project to serve the homeless. I am gathering donations of coats, blankets, and hygiene supplies to ensure that those without shelter have warmth and dignity during the harshest months. This effort reflects my belief that service means meeting people where they are and addressing immediate needs while working toward long-term solutions. My commitment to service is deeply personal because I know what it feels like to sleep outside in the cold, wondering if anyone cares. That memory drives me to make sure others never feel forgotten. Every donation I collect and every conversation I have with someone in need is a reminder that small acts of kindness can change lives. I also mentor individuals who are newly sober, offering guidance and encouragement as they rebuild their lives. These moments remind me that service is not about grand gestures it’s about consistent compassion. My future vision is bold: I am pursuing a psychology degree and plan to earn a master’s and become a licensed therapist. My goal is to develop programs for low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction and trauma. I want to break generational cycles by providing accessible therapy, education, and support. Ultimately, I hope to create a nonprofit that bridges gaps in mental health care for underserved communities. This scholarship would help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve. Service is not just what I do it is who I am. Every step I take is driven by the belief that one person’s story can change another’s life. With your support, I will keep turning my pain into purpose and help build a world where hope is always within reach.

Recovery means rediscovering who I am after years of believing I was beyond saving. For fifteen years, addiction controlled every part of my life. I lost my home, my sense of worth, and nearly my family. Six years ago, I made the hardest decision of my life: to fight for myself. Recovery wasn’t instant; it was a daily battle against shame, fear, and the voice that told me I couldn’t change. Through that struggle, I learned that recovery is not just about staying clean, it’s about healing the wounds that led me to addiction and building a life filled with purpose. Today, I am a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, using my experience to help others find hope when they feel hopeless. I’m also a single mother of four and a college sophomore pursuing a psychology degree. My dream is to earn a master’s degree and become a therapist for low-income families and individuals battling addiction. Recovery gave me more than sobriety, it gave me strength, resilience, and a mission. It means turning pain into power and proving that second chances are real. For me, recovery is freedom and the foundation for a future dedicated to helping others find theirs.

Growing up in an environment marked by abandonment and instability, I learned early what it feels like to fall through the cracks. For fifteen years, addiction and homelessness were my reality. Six years ago, I began my recovery journey a turning point that reshaped my life and ignited my passion for helping others. Today, as a Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team and a responder for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, I see every day how empathy and advocacy can change lives. That is why social work felt like the ideal path for me: it offers the opportunity to transform hardship into hope for others who feel unseen. Initially, I believed social work was about providing direct support to individuals in crisis. That mission resonated deeply because I know what it means to need someone who understands. My own experiences taught me that healing begins when someone believes in you. Choosing social work was my way of becoming that person for others. Since starting my psychology program, my understanding has expanded. I now see social work as more than one-on-one support, it is a profession rooted in advocacy and systemic change. Poverty, trauma, and lack of access to mental health care are not isolated issues; they are interconnected barriers that require comprehensive solutions. This realization has strengthened my commitment to addressing these challenges through both clinical practice and community engagement. As a first-generation college student and single mother of four, I understand the struggles families face when resources are limited. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). My goal is to serve low-income families and individuals battling addiction and trauma. I envision creating affordable therapy programs, expanding peer support networks, and advocating for trauma-informed policies. Beyond professional work, I want to mentor others in recovery, proving that change is possible no matter how far you’ve fallen. I also hope to collaborate with local organizations to develop educational workshops on mental health and addiction, empowering communities to break cycles of generational trauma. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but also empower me to continue turning pain into purpose. With your support, I can help build a community where healing and hope are accessible to everyone. Thank you for considering my application and for investing in students who are committed to making a lasting impact.

Five years ago, I was living in a tent. I had spent fifteen years battling addiction and homelessness, wondering if life would ever change. Growing up, I was abandoned at an early age, which left me feeling unwanted and alone. That pain shaped my choices and led me down a dark path. I remember nights when the cold felt unbearable and hope seemed like a distant dream. Today, I’m six years clean, a first-generation college student, a single mom of four boys, and a full-time employee working toward my psychology degree. My journey hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has shaped the person I am today. I receive a Pell Grant, but it doesn’t cover everything. Tuition, books, and transportation costs are constant stressors. This scholarship would ease that burden and allow me to focus on what matters most my education and my family. My dream is to earn my master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), specializing in addiction and mental health. I want to help others find hope, just like I did. I know what it feels like to be broken, and I know how powerful it is to have someone believe in you. I’m deeply involved in my community as a Certified Peer Specialist and advocate for homelessness. Speaking up for those who feel invisible is personal for me because I’ve been there. Every time I share my story, I hope to inspire someone to believe that recovery is possible. This scholarship isn’t just financial help it’s a lifeline. It’s proof that hard work and perseverance can overcome even the toughest obstacles. It would help me keep moving forward, turning my struggles into strength and creating a future where mental health and recovery are met with compassion and care.

“Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” This quote perfectly captures my journey with mental health. For years, I lived in survival mode, battling the effects of childhood abandonment and trauma. Those experiences led me down a dark path of addiction and homelessness that lasted fifteen years. I felt hopeless, broken, and convinced that my life had no purpose. Six years ago, everything changed I chose recovery. That decision was the hardest and most transformative step I’ve ever taken. Recovery was not a straight line. It was a daily fight against anxiety, depression, and the weight of past mistakes. I learned to embrace therapy, build coping strategies, and lean on support systems. Slowly, I began to rediscover myself not as a victim of my circumstances, but as someone capable of creating a better future. Mental illness taught me resilience, but it also taught me empathy. I know what it feels like to be lost, and I know how powerful it is to have someone believe in you. Today, my life looks very different, but the challenges remain. I am a single mother of four boys, a full-time employee, and a full-time college student pursuing a degree in psychology. Balancing these responsibilities while managing my mental health is not easy. There are days when exhaustion and self-doubt creep in, but I remind myself why I started this journey: to break cycles of trauma and show my children that perseverance can overcome any obstacle. Living with mental health challenges has shaped every part of who I am. It taught me that strength is not about perfection it’s about showing up, even when life feels impossible. It taught me to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and ask for help when I need it. These lessons have become the foundation for my future goals. I plan to earn my master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), specializing in addiction and mental health. My dream is to help individuals and families find hope and healing, just as I did. Mental illness does not define me, but it has given me purpose. It turned my pain into passion and my struggles into steppingstones. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to continue pursuing my dream of making a difference. My story is proof that even in the darkest moments, recovery is possible, and that those who fight through mental illness can become the strongest advocates for change. I carry this truth with me every day: resilience is born in adversity, and hope is the most powerful tool we have. With your support, I can continue turning my experiences into a source of strength for others, creating a future where mental health is met with compassion, understanding, and care.

My grandmother was my foundation. She raised me on her own, teaching me resilience, compassion, and the importance of perseverance. Her love and sacrifices shaped my childhood and gave me a sense of security during times when life felt uncertain. Years ago, everything changed when she fell and broke her hip. That single moment transformed both of our lives and set me on a path that continues to define who I am today. When my grandmother became disabled, I stepped into the role of her primary caregiver without hesitation. Overnight, my priorities shifted. I managed her medical appointments, assisted with daily tasks, and ensured her comfort while balancing school and work. After many surgeries, her condition worsened she became septic, and the doctors determined they could no longer perform additional operations. Today, she is unable to walk unassisted, and her care requires constant attention. It was overwhelming at times watching someone who had always been strong struggle with basic movements was heartbreaking. Yet, this experience taught me patience and resilience in ways nothing else could. Caring for her required sacrifices. While my peers enjoyed social activities, I spent evenings organizing medications and learning how to help her safely navigate our home. I became her advocate, speaking up for her needs during doctor visits and researching rehabilitation options. These responsibilities taught me time management, problem-solving, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Skills that now help me succeed as a full-time student and full-time employee. On top of these responsibilities, I am also a single mother of four boys. Balancing caregiving, parenting, work, and education has been one of the greatest challenges of my life, but it has also been the most rewarding. It taught me that strength is not about doing everything perfectly it’s about showing up every day, no matter how hard it gets. This journey deepened my empathy. I witnessed firsthand the emotional toll of disability and the isolation it can bring. My grandmother’s vulnerability reminded me how vital compassion and support are in times of crisis. That realization inspired my career goals. Today, I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology with plans to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor. My dream is to work with individuals and families facing addiction and mental health challenges, offering the same care and hope my grandmother gave me. Her broken hip was more than an injury; it was the beginning of a chapter that shaped my character and future. It taught me that true strength lies in service and that even in hardship, we can find purpose. Caring for my grandmother did not derail my dreams it fueled them. Every challenge I faced as her caregiver reinforced my commitment to helping others overcome obstacles and live fulfilling lives. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but also honor the sacrifices my grandmother and I made together. Her unwavering love and my caregiving experience have prepared me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I carry her lessons with me every day: love fiercely, serve selflessly, and never give up on your dreams.

When both of my parents abandoned me as a child, my world collapsed. I was left with questions no child should have to ask and a heart heavy with loneliness. My grandmother stepped in and became my entire support system. She raised me alone, teaching me resilience through her sacrifices. Watching her struggle to provide for us showed me what strength looks like, even when life feels impossible. Despite her love, the pain of abandonment stayed with me. I didn’t know how to cope, and I turned to drugs as a way to escape. What started as a temporary relief became a 15-year battle with addiction and homelessness. I lost everything except the hope my grandmother planted in me. Six years ago, I chose recovery. It was the hardest decision of my life, but it changed everything. Today, I am six years clean, a mother of four boys, and a full-time college student. My experiences have shaped my purpose: to help others who feel broken and unseen. I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology and plan to earn my master’s to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). My goal is to work with low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction and trauma. I know what it feels like to be hopeless, and I know how powerful it is when someone believes in you. I want to be that person, the one who says, “You matter,” and helps others find the strength to rebuild their lives. This career is more than a job for me; it’s a calling. Every class I take brings me closer to creating safe spaces for people who have been silenced by pain. I envision opening community programs that provide counseling, support groups, and resources for families who cannot afford therapy. I want to break cycles of trauma and addiction by offering hope and practical tools for healing. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial assistance, it would be an investment in a mission to change lives. I come from a background where opportunities were scarce, but I believe that adversity can be transformed into purpose. My journey proves that second chances are possible, and I want to dedicate my life to helping others discover theirs. I am no longer defined by abandonment or addiction. I am defined by resilience, hope, and the determination to turn pain into purpose. With your support, I can continue this journey and make a lasting impact on the world—one life at a time.

The day both of my parents walked away, my childhood ended. I was left with silence where love should have been, questions that had no answers, and a heart that carried more weight than it could bear. In that moment of abandonment, my grandmother became my lifeline. She stepped into the role of a single parent without hesitation, raising me alone with courage and love. Her strength was quiet but powerful. She worked tirelessly to provide stability and taught me that perseverance is not a choice, but a necessity. Growing up, I watched her sacrifice daily. She managed everything on her own: finances, household responsibilities, and the emotional weight of raising a child who felt forgotten. I remember nights when she skipped meals so I could eat, and mornings when she left for work before sunrise, determined to keep a roof over our heads. Her resilience became my blueprint for survival. Yet, despite her unwavering support, the pain of abandonment lingered. I struggled to make sense of my worth and, in my teenage years, turned to drugs to numb the hurt. What began as an escape became a 15-year battle with addiction and homelessness. But my grandmother never gave up on me. Her belief in me planted a seed that eventually grew into hope. Six years ago, I chose recovery. It was the hardest decision of my life, but every day since has been a testament to the lessons she taught me: strength, perseverance, and unconditional love. Today, I am proud to say I am six years clean, a mother of four boys, and a full-time college student. Her example shaped not only my resilience but also my purpose. I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology with plans to earn my master’s and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). My goal is to work with low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction and trauma, people who feel forgotten, as I once did. I want to be the voice that says, “You matter,” because someone once said that to me. This scholarship would help me continue the journey my grandmother started. Her sacrifices gave me a second chance at life, and I intend to honor that by helping others find theirs. I am no longer defined by abandonment or addiction; I am defined by resilience, hope, and the determination to turn pain into purpose. Every step I take toward my degree is a tribute to the woman who taught me that even in the face of loss, love and strength can rebuild a life.

There was a time when my life was defined by chains, chains of addiction, brokenness, and despair. For fifteen years, I struggled with substance abuse, homelessness, and hopelessness. I felt trapped in a cycle that promised relief but delivered pain. At my lowest point, I was not only addicted but held captive by circumstances that seemed impossible to escape. I believed freedom was beyond my reach. In that darkness, I began searching not for another temporary fix, but for something greater than myself. I looked for Jesus, and in truth, He found me. His grace reached into the depths of my brokenness and whispered a truth I had long forgotten: You are forgiven. You are loved. That moment changed everything. It was not just a spiritual awakening; it was the beginning of a new life. Faith became my anchor. Through prayer and surrender, I found strength to overcome addiction and rebuild my life. Today, I have been clean for six years. I am a single mother of four boys, a full-time Certified Peer Specialist on a mobile crisis team, and a college sophomore pursuing a degree in psychology. My goal is to earn a master’s degree and become a Licensed Professional Counselor, serving low-income families and individuals battling addiction. This is not just a career it is a calling born from my own redemption. Faith guides every step of this journey. It reminds me that integrity matters more than shortcuts, that compassion is stronger than judgment, and that perseverance is possible when God lights the path. In my work, I meet people in crisis every day. My faith allows me to offer hope, not just from training, but from lived experience. I can say, “I’ve been where you are, and there is a way out,” because I know the One who opened that way for me. Looking ahead, faith will continue to shape my career. It will keep me grounded in humility, committed to ethical practice, and focused on serving others rather than self-interest. In a world where success is often measured by wealth or status, my measure will be impact helping others find freedom and purpose, just as I did. My story is proof that faith is not passive; it is powerful. It broke my chains, restored my hope, and gave me a vision for the future. Today, I walk in that light, asking God daily to guide my steps. He is my strength, and with Him, I know I will not only succeed but serve with integrity and love.

“Abandoned as a child. Addicted as a teenager. Homeless as an adult. Today, I am a mother, a student, and a survivor.” Those words define the journey that brought me here. Balancing education and family responsibilities as a single parent is not just a challenge—it’s a daily act of resilience. My story began in hardship. I grew up without parents and spent years battling addiction. For fifteen years, I lived in survival mode, until I made the decision to fight for my life. Addiction consumed everything—my hope, my stability, and nearly my life. It was a relentless cycle of pain and escape, and I lost my brother to an overdose along the way. His death shattered me, but it also became the turning point that pushed me to seek recovery. I realized that if I didn’t change, my children would inherit the same brokenness. Six years ago, I chose sobriety, and every day since has been a fight to stay free and build a future worth living. Although my parents were absent, my grandmother stepped in and raised me by herself. She taught me the value of hard work and perseverance, even when life felt impossible. Her strength planted the seeds of resilience that I draw on today as I navigate motherhood, recovery, and education. I carry her lessons forward, determined to show my children that no obstacle is too great when you refuse to give up. Recovery is not a destination—it’s a lifelong commitment. I continue to attend support meetings, maintain a strong connection with my recovery community, and practice daily coping strategies that keep me grounded. I also work in the behavioral health field, which reinforces my accountability and reminds me why staying clean matters—not just for me, but for the people I serve and the children who look up to me. My plan is simple but powerful: never stop doing the work that saved my life. Today, I am raising four incredible boys on my own while working full-time as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis team and answering calls for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline with Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I juggle work, parenting, and college courses as a sophomore pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My ultimate goal is to earn my LPC and become a therapist for low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction—the very people I understand best because I’ve lived their reality. Education is my path to creating a better future for my children and for those who feel hopeless. Balancing these responsibilities means late nights studying after my kids are asleep, early mornings preparing for work, and constant budgeting to make ends meet. This scholarship would ease the financial strain that often forces single parents to choose between bills and books. It would allow me to focus more on my education without sacrificing the stability my children deserve. More than that, it would be an investment in breaking generational cycles—showing my boys that perseverance and education can transform lives. I am determined to prove that where you start does not define where you finish. With your support, I can continue this journey, graduate, and dedicate my life to helping others find hope in their darkest moments. This scholarship is not just assistance—it is a lifeline that will help me turn my sacrifices into strength and my dreams into reality.

“Abandoned as a child. Addicted as a teenager. Homeless as an adult. Today, I am a mother, a student, and a survivor.” Those words define the journey that brought me here. Balancing education and family responsibilities as a single parent is not just a challenge it’s a daily act of resilience. My story began in hardship. I grew up without parents and spent years battling addiction. For fifteen years, I lived in survival mode, until I made the decision to fight for my life. Addiction consumed everything my hope, my stability, and nearly my life. It was a relentless cycle of pain and escape, and I lost my brother to an overdose along the way. His death shattered me, but it also became the turning point that pushed me to seek recovery. I realized that if I didn’t change, my children would inherit the same brokenness. Six years ago, I chose sobriety, and every day since has been a fight to stay free and build a future worth living. Although my parents were absent, my grandmother stepped in and raised me by herself. She taught me the value of hard work and perseverance, even when life felt impossible. Her strength planted the seeds of resilience that I draw on today as I navigate motherhood, recovery, and education. I carry her lessons forward, determined to show my children that no obstacle is too great when you refuse to give up. Recovery is not a destination it’s a lifelong commitment. I continue to attend support meetings, maintain a strong connection with my recovery community, and practice daily coping strategies that keep me grounded. I also work in the behavioral health field, which reinforces my accountability and reminds me why staying clean matters. My plan is simple but powerful: never stop doing the work that saved my life. Today, I am raising four incredible boys on my own while working full-time as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis team and answering calls for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline with Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I juggle work, parenting, and college courses as a sophomore pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My ultimate goal is to earn my LPC and become a therapist for low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction, the very people I understand best because I’ve lived their reality. Education is my path to creating a better future for my children and for those who feel hopeless. Balancing these responsibilities means late nights studying after my kids are asleep, early mornings preparing for work, and constant budgeting to make ends meet. This scholarship would ease the financial strain that often forces single parents to choose between bills and books. It would allow me to focus more on my education without sacrificing the stability my children deserve. More than that, it would be an investment in breaking generational cycles by showing my boys that perseverance and education can transform lives. I am determined to prove that where you start does not define where you finish. With your support, I can continue this journey, graduate, and dedicate my life to helping others find hope in their darkest moments. This scholarship is not just assistance, but it is a lifeline that will help me turn my sacrifices into strength and my dreams into reality.

“Abandoned as a child. Addicted as a teenager. Homeless as an adult. Today, I am a mother, a student, and a survivor.” Those words define the journey that brought me here. Balancing education and family responsibilities as a single parent is not just a challenge, it’s a daily act of resilience. My story began in hardship. I grew up without parents and spent years battling addiction. For fifteen years, I lived in survival mode, until I made the decision to fight for my life. Today, I have been clean for six years, and I am raising four incredible boys on my own while working full-time as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis team and answering calls for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline with Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I juggle work, parenting, and college courses as a sophomore pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My ultimate goal is to earn my LPC and become a therapist for low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction, the very people I understand best because I’ve lived their reality. Education is my path to creating a better future for my children and for those who feel hopeless. One of my proudest moments as a mother is seeing my oldest son complete his master’s program this year. His achievement reminds me that perseverance pays off, and it inspires me to keep pushing forward. I still have three more children at home, and I hope they will follow in his footsteps and mine by pursuing their own dreams through education. I constantly encourage them by sharing my college experiences, celebrating their academic successes, and reminding them that education opens doors to opportunities that can change their lives forever. Balancing these responsibilities means late nights studying after my kids are asleep, early mornings preparing for work, and constant budgeting to make ends meet. This scholarship would ease the financial strain that often forces single parents to choose between bills and books. It would allow me to focus more on my education without sacrificing the stability my children deserve. More than that, it would be an investment in breaking generational cycles by showing my boys that perseverance and education can transform lives. I am determined to prove that where you start does not define where you finish. With your support, I can continue this journey, graduate, and dedicate my life to helping others find hope in their darkest moments. This scholarship is not just assistance it is a lifeline that will help me turn my sacrifices into strength and my dreams into reality.

I grew up in a world where love was something I had to imagine. My parents weren’t there to guide me, to comfort me, or to tell me that everything would be okay. Instead, I learned early what abandonment feels like, the hollow ache of wondering why you weren’t enough for someone to stay. That emptiness became the lens through which I saw life, and it shaped choices I wish I could take back. As a child, I carried pain I didn’t know how to name. I didn’t have the tools to cope, so I found my escape in addiction. Drugs became my way of silencing the questions and numbing the hurt. My brother walked the same path, and for a while, we leaned on each other in the chaos. But addiction doesn’t care about love or family, it takes without mercy. The day my brother overdosed and died was the day my world shattered. I lost him to the same darkness that almost claimed me, and the guilt of surviving when he didn’t is something I still carry. For fifteen years, I lived in that cycle of addiction, homelessness, despair. I didn’t believe in second chances. But six years ago, something changed. I chose life. I fought for sobriety, and every day since has been a battle I refuse to lose. Today, I stand clean, not just for myself but for the memory of my brother and for the people who still feel trapped in the same pain I once knew. Now, I work as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis team and answer calls for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline with Burrell Behavioral Health. Every voice I hear reminds me why I survived, so I could help others find hope when they feel hopeless. I share my story because I know what it’s like to believe you’re beyond saving. And I know what it’s like to be wrong about that. I’m also a sophomore in college, earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My dream is to become a Licensed Professional Counselor, to sit across from people who feel broken and tell them they are not beyond repair. I want to serve low-income families and individuals struggling with addiction because I’ve lived that reality. I understand the weight of trauma, the grip of substance use, and the power of someone believing in you when you can’t believe in yourself. My life began in abandonment, but it didn’t end there. It became a story of resilience, redemption, and purpose. I am proof that even in the darkest places, light can break through and when it does, it can illuminate a path not just for you, but for everyone you reach along the way.

I don’t know my parents. Abandonment shaped my earliest memories, leaving me to navigate life without the guidance most take for granted. Because of that, I consider myself a first-generation student not just academically, but emotionally. I had to teach myself how to survive, how to heal, and now, how to lead. Growing up without a stable foundation led to years of undiagnosed mental health challenges. I did drugs to numb the pain not because I didn’t care, but because I didn’t know how else to cope. During that time, my relationship with my children suffered. I wasn’t the parent they deserved, and that truth haunted me. But healing is possible. With support, therapy, and hard-won self-awareness, I rebuilt my life and my bond with my boys is now the strongest it’s ever been. They are my daily motivation and my greatest joy. Today, I work as a Peer Support Specialist with a mobile crisis team and the 988 suicide and crisis hotline. I meet people in their darkest moments, not with judgment, but with empathy born from experience. I know what it’s like to feel broken, and I know what it takes to begin again. My work is more than a job it’s a mission to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. Too often, people suffer in silence, afraid of being labeled or dismissed. I want to change that narrative. I want people to know it is ok to ask for help. Everyone deserves a safe space to share what they're going through. The most important thing is that you are reaching out for help, and that shows strength. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology, with plans to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. My goal is to create safe spaces for others to heal, especially those who feel unseen or unworthy. I believe that lived experience is a powerful credential, and I intend to use mine to advocate for trauma-informed care and accessible mental health services. This scholarship would not just support my education it would invest in a future where compassion leads the way. I’ve walked through fire and emerged with purpose. I’m not defined by abandonment or addiction; I’m defined by resilience, growth, and the unwavering belief that people can change. I’m living proof you can overcome! Thank you for considering my application. I’m ready to continue this journey not just for myself, but for every person who’s ever felt forgotten.

For 15 years, I lived in the grip of addiction. It wasn’t just a personal struggle it was a daily battle against homelessness, untreated mental health issues, and the deep ache of abandonment. I didn’t just lose my footing; I lost my sense of worth. But through the chaos, I held onto a quiet hope that my story could mean something more. But perhaps the deepest wound and the most sacred part of my healing have been the journey back to my children. Addiction didn’t just steal years from me; it fractured the bond between a parent and their boys. I missed birthdays, milestones, and quiet moments that should’ve been ours. The guilt was suffocating, and for a long time, I questioned whether I deserved a second chance with them. Repairing that relationship has been the most humbling and transformative part of my recovery. It hasn’t happened overnight. It’s taken consistency, vulnerability, and the willingness to show up even when the past echoes loudly. I’ve learned that love isn’t proven in grand gestures it’s rebuilt in the everyday: helping with homework, listening without judgment, being present. My boys have taught me grace in ways no textbook ever could. Recovery didn’t come easily. It took time, humility, and the courage to face the pain I had buried. I found healing in community, in faith, and in the realization that my lived experience could become a lifeline for others. That belief led me to become a certified peer support specialist, now working with a mobile crisis team and the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. Every day, I walk alongside people in their darkest moments not as someone with all the answers, but as someone who’s been there and made it through. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology, with plans to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Education is more than a goal it’s a promise to myself and to those I serve. I want to combine clinical knowledge with the empathy born from lived experience, offering care that’s both informed and deeply personal. This scholarship would not only support my academic journey it would help amplify a mission rooted in redemption. I’ve gone from surviving to serving, from being overlooked to becoming a voice of hope. My past doesn’t define me it equips me. And I believe that the most powerful healers are those who have walked through fire and emerged with open hands. I’m committed to using my education to break cycles, build trust, and create safe spaces for those who feel unseen. My story is still unfolding, but its message is clear: healing is possible, and purpose can rise from pain. With your support, I’ll continue turning my scars into steppingstones—not just for myself, but for every life I’m privileged to touch.

I never knew my parents. I was abandoned as a child and raised in a low-income household where survival often came before stability. That early experience shaped my understanding of trauma, resilience, and the power of hope. Today, I am a single mother of four incredible boys, working full-time at a mental health facility, pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology, and preparing to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). My journey has been anything but easy, but it’s given me a purpose far greater than myself. My boys are my heartbeat. Each one carries a unique spark one is the quiet thinker, another the comedian, the third a natural protector, and the youngest, a whirlwind of curiosity. When their father passed away from addiction, I knew I had to become both the anchor and the sail. I had to show them that grief doesn’t define us grit does. They’ve watched me study after long shifts, celebrate small victories, and hold space for others even when I’m exhausted. I want them to grow up knowing that healing is possible, that education opens doors, and that compassion is a strength. I want them to be proud of me most of all. Addiction nearly ended my life too. But I chose recovery. I chose to fight for my children and for the future I’m building. Working in mental health has deepened my resolve. Every day, I witness the courage it takes to ask for help and the transformation that follows. I want to be a therapist who not only understands the clinical side of healing but also the human side—the side that comes from lived experience. I am currently a peer support specialist that works in a mobile crisis unit and on a crisis hotline with 988. I am especially passionate about helping low-income families, because I’ve lived their reality. I know what it’s like to stretch every dollar, to carry trauma in silence, and to feel invisible. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of school, but it would also help me continue my mission: to turn pain into purpose and help others do the same. I’m not just chasing a degree I’m building a legacy of healing, stability, and service. My story is not defined by abandonment or addiction. It’s defined by resilience, love, and the unwavering belief that better is always possible. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay.

My story is one of redemption, resilience, and hope. As a child, I was abandoned and grew up without knowing my parents beyond early childhood. That experience left me feeling lost and searching for belonging. Without guidance or support, I turned to addiction—a battle that consumed 15 years of my life and nearly destroyed me. During those years, I lost my brother and many friends to the same disease. I was miserable, trapped in a cycle of shame and despair, convinced that I would never escape. Addiction robbed me of my dignity, my health, and my sense of purpose. By the grace of God, I have been clean for six years. Recovery gave me a second chance, and I vowed to use it to help others who feel hopeless. Today, I work full-time as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis unit and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Every day, I share my lived experience to guide people through their darkest moments. I know what it feels like to believe there is no way out—and I want to be the proof that there is. While rebuilding my life, I embraced my most important role: being a mother to four incredible boys. Single motherhood is challenging, but it has taught me strength and resilience. My children are my motivation to keep moving forward, even when life feels overwhelming. I strive to show them the right path—to live with integrity, work hard, and never give up on themselves. Every late-night study session and every long day at work is for them, so they know that perseverance leads to redemption. I want them to see that education and determination can break cycles of poverty and addiction. I am determined to be the example they need. After 15 years away from school, I returned to college as a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Since I never truly knew my parents, I consider myself a first-generation student. Navigating higher education without parental guidance has been intimidating, but I refuse to let fear stop me. My ultimate goal is to earn my LPC and become a therapist specializing in addiction, trauma, and serving low-income families. Balancing full-time work, full-time studies, and raising four boys is not easy. There are nights when I study after midnight and mornings when I start work exhausted, but I refuse to give up. Education is my path to creating a better future for my family and for the people I serve. This scholarship would be a tremendous relief, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. My journey from abandonment and addiction to recovery and service is proof that transformation is possible. As a first-generation student, I am breaking barriers and setting an example for my children—that no matter where you start, you can rise, rebuild, and lead the way for others. Thank you for considering my application.

My story is one of redemption, resilience, and hope. As a child, I was abandoned and grew up without knowing my parents beyond early childhood. That experience left me feeling lost and searching for belonging. Without guidance or support, I turned to addiction—a battle that consumed 15 years of my life and nearly destroyed me. During those years, I lost my brother and many friends to the same disease. I was miserable, trapped in a cycle of shame and despair, convinced that I would never escape. Addiction robbed me of my dignity, my health, and my sense of purpose. By the grace of God, I have been clean for six years. Recovery gave me a second chance, and I vowed to use it to help others who feel hopeless. Today, I work full-time as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis unit and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Every day, I share my lived experience to guide people through their darkest moments. I know what it feels like to believe there is no way out—and I want to be the proof that there is. While rebuilding my life, I embraced my most important role: being a mother to four incredible boys. Single motherhood is challenging, but it has taught me strength and resilience. My children are my motivation to keep moving forward, even when life feels overwhelming. I strive to show them the right path—to live with integrity, work hard, and never give up on themselves. Every late-night study session and every long day at work is for them, so they know that perseverance leads to redemption. I want them to see that education and determination can break cycles of poverty and addiction. I am determined to be the example they need. After 15 years away from school, I returned to college as a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Since I never truly knew my parents, I consider myself a first-generation student. Navigating higher education without parental guidance has been intimidating, but I refuse to let fear stop me. My ultimate goal is to earn my LPC and become a therapist specializing in addiction, trauma, and serving low-income families. Balancing full-time work, full-time studies, and raising four boys is not easy. There are nights when I study after midnight and mornings when I start work exhausted, but I refuse to give up. Education is my path to creating a better future for my family and for the people I serve. This scholarship would be a tremendous relief, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. My journey from abandonment and addiction to recovery and service is proof that transformation is possible. As a first-generation student, I am breaking barriers and setting an example for my children—that no matter where you start, you can rise, rebuild, and lead the way for others. Thank you for considering my application.

My story is one of redemption, resilience, and hope. For 15 years, I battled addiction, a fight that consumed my life and nearly destroyed me. During those years, I lost my brother and many friends to the same disease. I was miserable, trapped in a cycle of shame and despair, convinced that I would never escape. Addiction robbed me of my dignity, my health, and my sense of purpose. By the grace of God, I have been clean for six years. Recovery gave me a second chance, and I vowed to use it to help others who feel hopeless. Today, I work full-time as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis unit and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Every day, I share my lived experience to guide people through their darkest moments. I know what it feels like to believe there is no way out—and I want to be the proof that there is. While rebuilding my life, I embraced my most important role: being a mother to four incredible boys. Becoming a single mother after years of addiction was overwhelming. I had to learn how to provide stability, structure, and love while healing myself. There were times I worked long shifts and came home to homework, laundry, and late-night meals. I often studied after midnight because that was the only quiet time in the house. There were moments of exhaustion and doubt, but I kept going because my children deserved a better life. I want them to see that no matter how far you fall, you can rise again. Every sacrifice I make is to show them the right path and to live with integrity, work hard, and never give up on themselves. After 15 years away from school, I returned to college as a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology. My ultimate goal is to earn my LPC and become a therapist specializing in addiction, trauma, and serving low-income families. Balancing full-time work, full-time studies, and raising four boys is not easy, but it has taught me perseverance and time management. Education is my path to creating a better future for my family and for the people I serve. This scholarship would be a tremendous relief, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. My journey from addiction and homelessness to recovery and service is proof that transformation is possible. With your support, I can continue my education and expand my ability to help others reclaim their lives. Thank you for considering my application.

My life has been shaped by adversity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. As a child, I experienced abandonment a wound that left me searching for comfort and belonging. Unfortunately, I turned to heroin to numb that pain. What began as a coping mechanism became a 15-year battle with addiction, during which I lost my brother and many friends to the same struggle. Those years were the darkest of my life. I was miserable and trapped in a cycle of hopelessness and despair. Every day felt like survival, not living. I woke up consumed by cravings, shame, and fear, wondering if I would make it through the day or if this would be the day I lost everything. Addiction stole my dignity, my health, and nearly my life. I felt invisible and worthless, convinced that I would never escape the grip of heroin. My turning point came when I realized that if I didn’t change, I would die. By the grace of God, I have been clean for six years. Recovery gave me a second chance at life, and I have dedicated that life to serving others. Today, I work full-time as a Certified Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis unit and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Every day, I use my lived experience to guide and support individuals who feel hopeless, just as I once did. I understand the pain of addiction, homelessness, and trauma because I have lived it—and that empathy allows me to connect with people in a way that few can. After 15 years away from school, I returned to college as a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Balancing full-time work, full-time studies, and raising four boys as a single mother is a daily challenge. There are nights when I study after midnight and mornings when I start work exhausted, but I refuse to give up. My ultimate goal is to earn my LPC and become a therapist specializing in addiction, trauma, and serving low-income families. I want to be a voice of hope for those who feel forgotten, just as I once did. This scholarship would be a tremendous relief, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. My journey from addiction and homelessness to recovery and service is proof that transformation is possible. With your support, I can continue my education and expand my ability to help others reclaim their lives. Thank you for considering my application.

Finding Purpose Through Pain: My Journey to Healing and Service For fifteen years, I battled addiction—a relentless force that stripped away my stability, my home, and nearly my hope. My struggle began long before substance use entered my life. I was abandoned as a child, left to navigate the world without the emotional support and safety every child deserves. That deep wound of rejection and loneliness led me to seek ways to numb the pain, and addiction became my escape. The consequences were devastating: homelessness, isolation, and a sense of worthlessness that nearly consumed me. But through the grace of God, the unwavering support of my church family, and the love of my community, I found the strength to reclaim my life. Today, at 47 years old, I stand six years clean, a mother of four incredible boys, a full-time Peer Support Specialist, and a sophomore in college pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My journey has not been easy, but it has shaped my purpose. I know firsthand the pain of addiction and the stigma that surrounds it. I understand the silent suffering of those battling mental illness and the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma. These experiences have ignited a deep passion in me to serve others who are walking similar paths. I don’t want another person to feel the loneliness and hopelessness I once felt. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others heal. As a Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis team, I meet people in their most vulnerable moments. I offer not just professional support, but lived experience, empathy, and hope. My role allows me to connect deeply with individuals who feel misunderstood or forgotten, and to remind them that recovery is possible. This work has affirmed my calling to become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction counseling and serving low-income families. I am currently working toward my bachelor’s degree in psychology, and after graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and obtain my LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) certification. My goal is to open a practice that provides accessible, compassionate care to those who need it most—especially individuals and families affected by addiction, poverty, and early childhood trauma. I believe healing is not just about treatment, but about restoring dignity, building trust, and creating community. I want to help others understand how early trauma shapes behavior and mental health, and guide them toward healing and resilience. Balancing school, full-time work, and single motherhood is challenging, but my four sons are my greatest motivation. They have been my rock throughout this journey, and I strive every day to be the example they deserve. I want them to see that no matter how far you fall, you can rise again—with faith, perseverance, and support. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous blessing. It would ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to focus more fully on my studies and service. More importantly, it would be an investment in a future therapist who is deeply committed to transforming lives through empathy, resilience, and lived experience. Thank you for considering my application.

Finding Purpose Through Pain: My Journey to Healing and Service For fifteen years, I battled addiction—a relentless force that stripped away my stability, my home, and nearly my hope. The darkness of substance use and the weight of untreated mental health challenges led me into homelessness and isolation. I felt invisible, helpless, and alone. But through the grace of God, the unwavering support of my church family, and the love of my community, I found the strength to reclaim my life. Today, at 47 years old, I stand six years clean, a mother of four incredible boys, a full-time Peer Support Specialist, and a sophomore in college pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My journey has not been easy, but it has shaped my purpose. I know firsthand the pain of addiction and the stigma that surrounds it. I understand the silent suffering of those battling mental illness without support. These experiences have ignited a deep passion in me to serve others who are walking similar paths. I don’t want another person to feel the loneliness and hopelessness I once felt. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others heal. As a Peer Support Specialist on a mobile crisis team, I meet people in their most vulnerable moments. I offer not just professional support, but lived experience, empathy, and hope. My role allows me to connect deeply with individuals who feel misunderstood or forgotten, and to remind them that recovery is possible. This work has affirmed my calling to become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction counseling and serving low-income families. I am currently working toward my bachelor’s degree in psychology, and after graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and obtain my LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) certification. My goal is to open a practice that provides accessible, compassionate care to those who need it most—especially individuals and families affected by addiction and poverty. I believe that healing is not just about treatment, but about restoring dignity, building trust, and creating community. Balancing school, full-time work, and single motherhood is challenging, but my four sons are my greatest motivation. They have been my rock throughout this journey, and I strive every day to be the example they deserve. I want them to see that no matter how far you fall, you can rise again—with faith, perseverance, and support. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous blessing. It would ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to focus more fully on my studies and service. More importantly, it would be an investment in a future therapist who is deeply committed to transforming lives through empathy, resilience, and lived experience. Thank you for considering my application. I am not just seeking financial support—I am seeking the opportunity to continue walking in purpose, helping others find light in their darkest moments, just as others once did for me.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time. I would be honored to receive this award. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. May God bless all who read this and put their trust in the Lord.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible. Not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are, whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.

Addiction nearly stole everything from me — my health, my family, my future. For 15 years, I battled substance use and the mental health challenges that come with it. I lost my brother and several close friends to addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand how deeply it can tear apart lives and communities. But through years of hard work, support, and grace, I’ve been clean for five years. That experience changed me forever, and today, helping others who struggle with addiction is not just my calling — it’s my purpose. I currently serve as a certified peer support specialist, working with individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. I’ve worked with drug court, probation and parole, family court, and now serve with the mobile crisis team and 988 hotline through Burrell Behavioral Health. Every day, I bring hope and lived experience into spaces where people often feel unseen, misunderstood, or judged. I know what it feels like to be there — to be hopeless, to believe change is impossible. And I also know what it feels like to be supported, to have someone believe in me until I could believe in myself. That’s the kind of support I now give to others. Helping people overcome addiction is deeply personal to me. When someone shares their pain, their story, their desire to change, I see a piece of myself in them. I never want another person to feel alone in their battle. I want them to know that healing is possible — not just survival, but full, meaningful recovery. That’s why this work matters so much to me. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia College. My long-term goal is to earn my master’s degree and become a licensed therapist, specializing in addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I want to combine my lived experience with clinical training so I can provide comprehensive support to people in recovery. I want to be able to meet people wherever they are — whether in crisis, in early recovery, or years into sobriety — and offer tools, therapy, and encouragement that meet their unique needs. Addiction doesn’t discriminate — it affects people from all walks of life. But with the right support and access to care, recovery is possible. I’ve lived that truth, and I’m committed to using my life and my career to share it. Every person I help is a reminder of why I’m here and why this path matters. If I can be even a small part of someone’s transformation — the way others were for me — then every hardship I went through will have had a purpose. This scholarship will help me continue my education and expand my ability to serve others. I believe healing is contagious, and with the right training and heart, I can help spread it — one life at a time.