AFG Blog: "I am possible!"
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On September 23rd, Joy, a Shelter resident, gave this speech at AFG's "Planting Roots" event.
Hello my name is Joy Evans. 21 years ago I celebrated my first birthday in a women's battered shelter. At the age of 15 I entered into my first youth homeless program by choice, due to my mother's neglectful behavior. Throughout my life my mother struggled with addiction which made it hard for her to provide for me. I relied on many shelter programs in several different states throughout my teen years. At the age of 20 I became involved with Alternatives For Girls. I was homeless and found out I was pregnant. I knew I needed to obtain resources to maintain financial independence, and gain life and parenting skills. I needed assistance with prenatal care, a safe place to help with my pregnancy, and education on newborn care. Once I became a resident at Alternatives For Girls I obtained proper insurance, prenatal vitamins, and scheduled prenatal appointments with an OB/GYN. In August, I gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl! Since beginning this new chapter of motherhood I still rely on the support system and resources at AFG. While at AFG I was able to obtain a job, save up money, and I am currently transitioning into my own apartment! I will also be attending online college in the winter to obtain my associate's degree. I am now on a new path to maintain a stable life for me and my daughter. Click here to read more.
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Positive Choices, Powerful Lives: Planting Roots
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On September 23rd, Alternatives For Girls held its annual Positive Choices, Powerful Lives event at the Detroit Historical Museum. The event raised more than $10,000 for AFG, and had over 60 attendees. The guests heard inspirational stories from three young women, one from each of AFG's programs. After the program, they were welcomed to explore the museum.
"A lesson I've learned during my time at AFG is how much of an impact I can make in someone's life by just being involved and being there for them. Seeing this possibility has helped me create my plans for the future. I plan to attend a four-year university to earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education and go on to become a teacher," shared Shannica, AFG Young Women Changing Communities participant and current youth board member on AFG's Board of Directors.
AFG would like to thank the table hosts for inviting their friends and families to the event; Michelle Crockett, Vice Chair of AFG's Board of Directors, for being our amazing emcee; Sandra Svoboda for making a moving case to support AFG; Shannica, Tiana, and Joy for sharing their inspiring stories; and finally all of our event attendees for spending the evening with us.
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