I have always believed in the importance of giving back to my community. Growing up, I witnessed that small acts can have a large impact when done consistently and with purpose. My passion for service has led me to engage in various activities that aim to uplift those around me and I'm excited about how my education will help me take this commitment to the next level. One of the most significant acts of service I engage in is volunteering at the afterschool program that I grew up in. Every month I dedicate time to help support programming at Adventure Central. Adventure Central serves at risk youth in West Dayton. These children are often faced with difficult circumstances and Adventure Central provides a safe space where they can learn and grow. Contributing to that safe space is a fulfilling way for me to give back. Through these programs, I am able to offer mentorship and emotional support to youth who might not have access to these resources. It's rewarding to see how a little bit of time and care can brighten someone's day and inspire them to pursue their dreams. In addition to volunteering at the afterschool program, I also help with park clean ups. This may seem simple but it serves as a way to directly improve the lives of the people in my community. Participating in park cleanups ensures that everyone has access to well-maintained public spaces where they can relax, exercise, and spend time with their families. This reflects my belief that small acts cam help the community achieve a common goal. Social work is the perfect pathway to channel my passion for helping others into a professional career. Through my coursework, I am gaining an in-depth understanding of the social systems that shape people's lives. Courses on mental health, poverty, and community organizing have provided me with the knowledge and skills I need to make an impact. Social work is about empowering individuals and communitites and my education is helping me to better understand the challenges people face and how to create sustainable solutions to improve their well-being. In the future, I plan to combine my passion for service with my social work degree to advocate for policies and programs that support vulnerable populations, particularly within my community. Whether it's working in schools, hospitals, or social service agencies, I see myself using my skills to provide support to those who need it most. I want to create programs that focus on mental health, education, and community development. My goal is to be a catalyst for positive change. The work I do now is just the beginining and as I continue my education and grow in my career. I know that my ability to give back will only expand. I am confident that I will be able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and contribute to a more just and compassionate community.

In five years, I see myself having completed my social work degree and actively working in my community. As a black male from West Dayton, I understand the unique challenges my community faces and I'm dedicated to using my skills and knowledge to make a difference in the community. I envision myself working at a high school (hopefully my alma mater, Carroll High School), providing support and advocacy to young black students. My goal is to help them navigate systemic barriers, achieve their goals, and realize their full potential. In this role, I plan to focus on mental health and educational support. Mental health isn't really spoken about in the black community and I want to change that by providing accessible counseling. I also aim to create programs that help with academics and mentorship, ensuring that our youth have the resources they need to succeed. I also see myself becoming a voice for change within the social work profession. I want to be a part of professional organizations and networks so that I can collaborate with others who are passionate about social justice and equity. In ten years, I see myself in a leadership position, either within a non-profit organization or running my own community center. I want to meet more than just the immediate needs of youth. I would like to address issues like poverty, discrimination, and lack of quality access to education and healthcare. By then, I hope to have developed several programs that have positively impacted my community. These might include mentorship programs, support groups, and mental health services. I want to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to take control of their lives. In my personal life, I see myself as a pillar of support fir my family and community. Balancing my professional aspirations with being a present and active family member is important to me. I want to model what it means to be a successful, engaged, and caring black man in both the personal and professional worlds. Overall, my vision for the future is one of growth, impact, and leadership. I am committed to using my social work degree to make meaningful changes in my community and beyond. I want to ensure that the voices of marginalized people are heard and respected. By staying true to my values and continuously striving for excellence, I know that I can make a lasting difference.