I have worked very hard to get where I am.  I feel very fortunate to have the success I have.  I also feel it is important to give back.  No business owner would be successful without the community.  The grocery store on the corner that nurtured you with food or the teacher who nurtured you with knowledge.  The people who we meet on the street every day influence us.  I want to be a person who influences people to be successful, either in their daily life or their career.  Giving back is where you give, and then nothing happens. No benefits for you, no recognition, nothing tangible gets sent your way. Your biggest and sole reward is the realization that you’ve made a significant change in someone’s life. And if not “significant,” then a positive change nevertheless.

Please choose your own path for giving back.  Be a part of something meaningful to you. Here are some examples of meaningful giving back to me.

I am a big supporter of Haven House. Haven House is an organization that supports female teens who have had difficult life experiences. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a two-parent home where I was told ANYTHING is possible.  Unfortunately, not every girl has that luxury.  Some young ladies have no “blood” family to guide them. Haven House places young women in foster families to fill that void. A home that is free from violence and neglect.

But don’t stop there.  Bethlehem House is another of my favorites.  This organization helps the homeless.  We have all had minor or major issues in life.  For some, the issues result in homelessness.  Makes me think of the quote “There but by the grace of God go I,” meaning I could have been in the same unfortunate circumstance that someone else experienced, but God’s grace sustained me. Anyone can have a troubling life.  Some are more catastrophic than others, but due to friends, family, or hard work, we get thru.  However, some are not that fortunate.  I choose to be a friend and family to the people who have not had the influence and support I have had.  All it may take is one person believing in them and that brings me to the United Way.  This organization gives people the tools to better themselves when nothing else can.  We partner with local schools, government, and health services to help OUR community. Because I am so passionate about this organization, I have the honor of being selected as a member of the board of directors for the Central Arkansas chapter.

I hope this blog has inspired you to make a difference. I get so much joy from giving back to the community I live in. Please make the choice to do the same and feel the joy and pride in OUR community that I do.  Thank you for reading. And remember… “The biggest failure is not doing anything because you can only do a little. “ If everyone did a little, great things will happen.

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