Giving Hope Magazine Vol. 1

Hello 2023!

As I write this letter, I reflect on the day when the Giving Hope Again family encountered the tragic loss of our co-founder, Ricardo M. Lewis. It was 33 months and 16 days ago that Mr. Lewis felt he had no more hope to give and decided to take his life.

That day social media overflowed with post after post of condolences, pictures, and RIP status. I was left numb and in disbelief. I shed uncontrollable tears that at times still flow.

The future of the organization that looked so bright in my eyes had the lights turned off until I realized our MISSION was bigger than the founders. I had to ensure the plans for the organization would continue to Give Hope Again and ensure the initiatives we already had in place were accomplished along with the new initiative that was added Suicide Awareness and Prevention.

I know this new journey won’t be easy, but it is necessary, and the organization is up for the challenge. I learned from this experience you can never be prepared for everything in life, but you can make the adjustments you need to thrive. With the help of God, family, friends, volunteers, and donors we will continue on the path of H PE.

Zandra President

Connecting Resources because we are stronger together!

Giving Hope Again is a bi-monthly magazine designed to connect community resources and highlight national smaller service-based nonprofit organizations because we believe together we are stronger.

OUR MISSION

Giving Hope Again is an organization aimed at improving the livelihood of those living in, around, and interacting within our communities. We are an open-minded organization aimed at finding innovative and effective ways to reach out to those in our community who have been affected by the perils of life; in an effort of GIVING to those who have been discouraged some form of HOPE, so that they may learn to dream AGAIN!

CONTACT INFORMATION

info@givinghopeagain.org @givinghopeagain givinghopeagain.org

Giving Hope Again is a publication of PurposePals, LLC. The information in this publication is presented in good faith. The publisher and organization does not guarantee accuracy or assume responsibility for errors or omissions. The publisher and organization does not take any responsibility for decisions made based on the content of this publication. Please consult your physician before making any medical decisions.

Copyright 2023 © Giving Hope Again. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without expressed written consent of the Publisher is prohibited.

Images provided by: <a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/portrait-young-beautiful-woman-gesticulating_13482689.htm#query=black%20woman%20pointing% 20up&position=41&from_view=search&track=ais">Image by wayhomestudio</a> on Freepik

Giving HopeAgain Programs and Initiatives

Giving Hope Again offers a variety of community initiatives that address specific challenges in our communities. Visit our website for information about how you can be a donor or volunteer.

Like A Rock

This initiative focuses on improving the lifestyle of those living with cardiopulmonary disorders. According to the CDC, Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. The Like A Rock program aids in providing cardiopulmonary health awareness and education pertaining to fitness and heart-healthy diet guidelines.

Resource Center

The resource center provides citizens with free computer access, internet access, printing services and classes for resume writing, economic development, self-empowerment etc. The center also focuses on linking citizens with resources for mental, social and economic assistance services.

Let

s Eat

Giving Hope Again has assisted in providing lunch, breakfast and dinner to the homeless populations of our communities. Over the past three years in addition to the meals provided when available, GHA has an annual Father’s Day lunch, Christmas and Thanksgiving Day breakfast for the people of the Parramore Community in Orlando, FL. This initiative was recently expanded in 2020 to provide a New Year’s Day dinner as well.

Let’s Talk About Us

This Initiative is to educate youth from third to 12th grade on topics including social skills, mental Health, financial Literacy and selfconfidence.

Seeing a need to have open and honest dialogue in various communities “Let’s Talk About Us” was developed. This initiative provides discussion panels where citizens can freely discuss the pressing issues of our community. Past forums have included discussions on politics, physical health, mental health, and economic development.

All of these ailments are caused by the irreversible clogging of a main artery, which deprives different tissues of oxygen and nutrients.

Depending on the affected organ, the patient could develop myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, or ischemic limb.

The main culprit behind the vascular obstruction is the oxidation of cholesterol that occurs in the lumen of those vessels. In this article, we will discuss:

that optimize cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of vessel obstruction.

Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) that reduces blood pressure and optimizes the metabolism of lipids (e.g., triglycerides).

Since high blood pressure and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, consuming healthy fats could reduce the strain on your heart, as well as the risk of myocardial infarction.

Please consult your physician before making any medical decisions.

Foods that contain omega-3: Herring Oysters Mackerel Sardines Salmon Cod liver oil Omega 6

According to several scientific studies ty acids are especially effective at reducing the levels of LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol. Similar to omega focuses on the metabolism of other lipids to protect your vessels from obstruction.

Foods that contain omega-6: Hemp seeds Peanut butter Safflower oil Sunflower seeds Walnuts Tofu Vitamin K 

Calcium build-up inside blood vessels is an important risk factor for heart disease.

Therefore, foods and medications that can prevent the accumulation of calcium could potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The primary way that vitamin K2 helps with this condition is by preventing the deposition of calcium inside the arteries.

In a 2004 study, researchers analyzed the effects of vitamin K2 intake and heart disease. And as you

Diet is the main factor that determines the health of your heart and vessels. After years of research, scientists identified numerous foods that optimize cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of vessel obstruction.

may know, correlation does not equal causation

To simply this concept, here’s an analogy: Drowning-related deaths are highest when people consume a lot of ice cream.

Obviously, ice cream consumption does not cause people to drown; this is merely a correlation that occurs because both swimming activity and ice cream intake peak during the summer season.

The same thing applies to vitamin K2 intake and cardiovascular disease.

However, the example given in the analogy is on the extreme side of things since there is no mechanism that could potentially connect the two events.

On the other hand, vitamin K2 has a documented biological mechanism that explains its effectiveness in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

CONTROL YOUR STRESS

Meditation and yoga are incredibly effective anxiolytic activities that control levels of stress and anxiety.

You see, chronic psychological stress triggers complex biochemical pathways that lead to the massive release of stress hormones in the blood (e.g., cortisol, epinephrine).

Eventually, these hormones constrict the diameter of blood vessels and increase the risk of high blood pressure.

Furthermore, chronic stress makes people prone to heart attacks and congestive heart failure.

The good news is that learning how to control your stress will reverse the inflicted damage and lower your risk of heart events.

significantly.

EXERCISE MORE REGULARLY

According to Elijah Saunders, M.D., head of the hypertension section of the University of Maryland School Medicine’s Division of Cardiology, exercise promotes the secretion of nitric oxide (NO), which is responsible for expanding your vessels and lowering blood pressure.

Moreover, one study published in the British Medical Journal found that females who engage in regular physical activity had higher levels of HDL. This is a good type of cholesterol. In fact, the authors of the study highlighted that regular exercise can potentially lower your risk of

cardiovascular events by up to 50%.

PRACTICE YOGA

Scientists concluded that yoga helps regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart rate. Abnormal events of these parameters predispose to cardiovascular disease.

In one study, researchers inspected the effects of 3 months of yoga practice on blood pressure and waist circumference. At the end of the study, all participants had a lower waist circumference and improved blood pressure measurements.

Another study noted that practicing yoga twice a week lowers the chances of developing atrial fibrillation (A-fib).

A-fib is a common cardiac arrhythmia that messes with the electrical system of the heart.

Cardiovascular disease is a public health problem that takes millions of lives annually. The world health organization (WHO) and centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) spend billions of dollars to educate people about this illness and ways to prevent it.

Hopefully, this article managed to shed some light on the preventive measures that could reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death around the globe.

Please consult your physician before making any medical decisions.

2023

Finding Your

We get so caught up in our daily lives that we forget to work on ourselves. We forget that it is a must that we take the necessary precautions to make sure that we keep ourselves happy and sane. Some of you may be saying that it’s impossible; with the life we live there is always something to do.

You don’t have time to stop and worry about yourself, you have a family that you must provide for and take care of. You are guilty of at some point providing and caring for others before yourselves. You not only need to look out for your physical health but emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Your health has a major impact on your wellness.

The key is that you must maintain a healthy relationship with yourself. Always take the time to treat yourself, talk to yourself, and set positive goals for yourself. It is so easy to fall into a habit of pleasing others and looking for validations from all the wrong places. Keep in mind that one of the most important relationships that you can have is with yourself. Having this relationship can help you cope better with things that you face from day to day. Therefore, you must be mindful of the way that you treat yourself and how you maintain your body. You have to always remember the relationship that you have with yourself allows you to have an even better relationship with others around you.

At this point I know you’re probably saying, she makes this sound so easy. How am I supposed to accomplish selfcare with my busy schedule?

Well I’m glad that you asked. No matter what, you should always make it a priority that you take time to try some relaxing techniques to ease your mind. There are many different ways that you can begin your journey on self-care; and you should start right away, because self-love is a necessity.

PurchaseA Notebook

Why keep it all in? You carry around thoughts, feelings, or even things you need to do and it can become overwhelming. Holding on to stuff that you know you need to get out or simply thinking about things that you need to do to organize your life is not healthy . Having a notebook can be helpful because it is a place you can release by listing things you want to do or need to do. You can also try expressing yourself on paper when you’re having a bad day, jotting down thoughts, or doodling. Whatever it may be that you feel you need to get out.

GetA Massage

Massages are beneficial in many ways, they don’t just feel good, but they have also been shown to relieve pain, stiffness, boost immunity, reduce anxiety and depression, lower stress, blood pressure and increase circulation.

Read a Good Book

Let’s trade your Facebook feed time for something more relaxing and positive. A good book whether fictional or nonfictional can be relaxing or

informative. Reading gives you a moment to switch gears and stimulate your mind.

Say NO

A lot of the time you don’t realize that having too much on our plates can also cause a huge amount of stress. Reduce your workload, manage your time more, and prioritize your workload. The best way to do this is by not taking on the task of others by learning to say NO. I know this is hard to do for some, but remember you are looking out for the best interest of self.

Meditate

Every morning before you start your day, learn to take some time out and just meditate and relax. Pray, have positive thoughts, and reflect. Close your eyes, take a couple of deep breaths, and release all the tension that your body is holding on to.

TakeABreak

Everyone likes a nice getaway every now and then to just relax. If it’s in your budget, do it! It can be a staycation, baecation, one day road trip, whatever fits your budget. Most importantly leave everything else behind when you do it and make no apologies for it.

Talk

Oftentimes we all hold onto things, but in reality, you need to have someone that you can talk to. I’m not saying that you must go around telling all of your

business, but find someone that you can trust and that is positive. This person can also be a praying partner, not saying you need a counselor, but just someone that will listen and check on your wellbeing from time to time.

Now that I have given you a start on improving your self-care, all you have to do from this point is put it into action and no it is not going to be easy, but just pace yourself and take it one step at a time and keep reminding yourself that without self-love you are no good to the others around you.

Chanda W. Johnson is a newly published author of a children’s book “Generation Next: A Journal of Life”, a blogger, and an entrepreneur.

She is a leader and loves to encourage and motivate others. Being a registrar at a charter school gives her time to mentor and encourage students of all ages. During her spare time she loves spending time with her children, networking, traveling, attending church and worship, promoting, crafting, singing and listening to music, reading, and blogging. By writing her prayer is to touch the hearts of those who read her words, to inspire and motivate them.

On November 9th, 2017 I was released from “The Department Of Corrections”, after serving a 10-year sentence. From the moment of my re-entree back into society, I was told that I’d been given a second chance to live my life. As a returning citizen however that wasn’t the case. Due to my background and past decisions, I was limited to certain jobs, housing, and activities I wanted to apply for. Now we asked ourselves is this a second chance? Or is it a setup for failure? Well,

FRESH START

Larry Crayton s Story

the answer to that question is failure. Yes, you have your freedom back but it’s like you’re making a fresh start in life. You’re basically starting over from scratch.

Hello, my name is Larry Crayton, and since this day forth I’ve been trying to make a better living for myself and my family. I’m limited to certain jobs I can establish, which don’t really pay enough to provide for my bills and family, so I’ve been forced to get more than one job to make ends meet. By doing this I’m limited to the quality time spent with my family because I have to work timeless hours to maintain. I truly feel after we pay our debts to society for our actions taken we shouldn’t be judged for our past. And they wonder why the numbers are so high for people returning back to prison. No, I’m not making excuses at all, I’m mainly touching on the issue of saying you’re giving us a second chance when truthfully it’s more like a fresh start. The true reason for this is that there’s nothing to offer us while incarcerated. They cut all programs and trades to help

rehabilitate you. The only thing offered is the GED program. To enroll in anything else you have to have a loved one from the outs to help you and once again that costs money and isn’t guaranteed you’ll be eligible for it. I would love to see so much change to help returning citizens as they’re released from prison. It hurts me to see so many people's lives go to waste because they don’t have the proper resources to get them the help that they need. Since my return, I’ve maintained employment in hard laboring jobs. Along the way, I’ve picked up different skills and trades that have allowed me to make some decent money to get ahead, but it was never easy because I still have my past lingering over my head. Yes, wrong doing never goes away. Months ago I applied for my Insurance Adjuster License and once again because of my background, I was denied my right to obtain my license., even after passing my state exams. But I never let that stop me. I reached out to some people in higher places to see what it was I could do. So after 7 months of writing letters and explaining what

happened in my past life, I was finally granted my license through the grace of God. In my spare time, I coach little league football and mentor young men. I go out to speak to young men about the choices we make in life and the consequences that come with them. I don’t just consider myself a football coach or mentor, I see myself more as a life coach. I share my life experiences on what took place when I made bad decisions, and how it can affect not just yourself but also others around you. Right now I’m in the process of starting up a mentorship program to help young men make better choices in life. The name of my nonprofit organization is called “21 SOLDIERS.” My main topics will be finance, employment, goal setting, and leadership. My goal is to see them make better choices in their lives and not go down the same path as myself and so many others. Because at the end of the day, some people don’t get that second chance or a fresh start. Our kids are the future and it takes us as leaders in the community to help them achieve their goals.

I truly feel after we pay our debts to society for our actions taken we shouldn’t be judged for our past. And they wonder why the numbers are so high for people returning back to prison.

-Larry Crayton

Survivors with a Testimony

Founder: Vernita Council-Howard www.survivorswithatestimony.org

Survivors with a Testimony Inc. (S.W.A.T. Inc.) is a non-profit organization based in North Carolina & Indiana whose mission is to put a STOP to the varied forms of domestic abuse in our community by providing support services such as education and advocacy to survivors and families

The organization was started because the founder loss her son through Domestic Violence. Even though he didn’t live to tell his story when other men speak out it gives her son a voice. We believe all survivors can embrace who they are, can define their future and can change the world but we also know that knowledge and prevention is key.

The purpose of the organization is to provide prevention education and awareness for men, women and children who have been introduced to Domestic Violence. We have Survivors working with other Survivors to bring healing where they were wounded. We understand the pain, the stress, the hurt, fear, the late night cries, the early morning headaches we have walked in similar shoes, yet we pushed through. We have our Survivor Sisters and Survivor Brothers here to help you through the process. The purpose is to show that it happen but yet we can OVERCOME IT and let us know we are not alone.

Our vision is a world without abuse for men, women and children in their schools, jobs, homes, and communities.

It was important for SWAT to be also important to me because men, women, and children need resources and someone to talk to who knows what they have been through. Not someone who has a piece of paper with statistics but someone who has felt the pain and can relate to the victim or survivor we are helping.

CONNECTING RESOURCES

NoGrayArea

Founder: Missy Corbin nograyarea.org

My name is Missy Corbin the Founder of NoGrayArea, which was established in 2020. NoGrayArea is located in Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania. Our mission is bridging gaps by empowering our community with knowledge and resources and connecting non-profits with companies to partner in their missions. Currently clients are referred to us by State Representative Matt Bradford’s office, case managers, social workers, local department of human service, behavioral health agencies, local churches, dialysis centers, hospitals, utility companies, veterans administration and other nonprofit organizations.

NoGrayArea meet people where they are. Although we have a short list of menu services on our website, we assist with much more. NoGrayArea is consistently forming new relationships with other organizations that develop into strong partnerships to build an arsenal of resources. Currently our intake consists of homelessness, delinquent rent, delinquent mortgage, delinquent property tax and utilities.

NoGrayArea works closely with the Legal Aid Society to assist our clients with the eviction process by helping clients with locating and funding a new. LASP also works with our clients to expunge their record.

We have a relationship with the Montgomery County ARD Unit, a program for first offenders. NoGrayArea noticed that the non-profits in the area

were not permitting people to complete community service with their organizations. We contacted the ARD Unit and requested they start referring their clients to us. We have asked several non-profit organizations to partner with us to provide opportunities for clients to complete community service hours.

Below are a few future projects NoGrayArea is working on and hope to roll out within the next 24 months.

Adopt-A-Senior

This program would be funded by national and local companies to pay winter and summer electric bills. In addition, they would be responsible for installing the appropriate air conditioning in seniors' homes with either a window unit or central air conditioning. Lastly, the company would ensure seniors were properly hydrated year round by providing water service from Deer Park with delivery of one to two bottles of water per week. This initiative increased the amount of money seniors had remaining at the end of the month, which allowed them to enjoy other activities.

Eviction Diversion Program

NoGrayArea will contact judges in each municipality’s landlord tenant court. Typically, each judge will rule a pay and stay order. It is our hope that judges will identify individuals and families that want to comply, but are not able to financially. Our goal is to find companies who are willing to make a one-time donation or monthly

donations to cover court costs to prevent homelessness.

Hotel Voucher Program

Currently agencies that are funded by local and federal government and churches do not cover hotels or any short stay. The only entity that possibly would cover a hotel stay is an organization that assists in disasters. Our goal is to find companies that want to either make a one-time donation or monthly donations to cover these costs to prevent homelessness.

Job Fair

NoGrayArea is planning a Job Fair within the next 12 months, including no less than 100 companies to share employment opportunities, interviewing, and on the spot hiring. These employers will include light industrial to C-Level and government agencies. Our intention is for this to be scheduled as an annual event.

Resource Event

This event is for vendors to share information about their community outreach programs. The vendors will include Medicaid HMO’s, various non-profit organizations, hospitals, PACE, Waiver Programs, drug & alcohol facilities, Education Law Center, and PIN (parent involved network). We plan to include all programs that benefit the community at no cost.

Josie’s House of Help

Founder: Davina Cook www.josieshouse.org

Josie s House of Help is a 501c3 organization located in the Central Florida (Orlando) area.

Davina Cook is the Founder and Executive Director of Josie’s House of Help, Inc. Mrs. Cook formed this organization in 2015 a few years following the passing of her grandmother, Josie Burnett. Mrs. Burnett exemplified if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does NOT have- 1Cor 8:12. Her generosity and compassion to help those around her became the foundation of what Josie’s House of Help is today!

Josie’s House of Help “Mission is to enrich the lives of those in need, provide aid and resources that contribute to the overall betterment of the communities that we serve.” The organizations vision is to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Josie’s House of Help serves children/youth (K-12 grade), young adults up to age 21 and senior citizens (60 years old and above). Throughout the year, JHH host community outreach events such as College Dorm Essential giveaway (Graduating High School students), Backpack/School supplies giveaway (Grades K-12) and Thanksgiving Basket of Love (Senior Citizens 60 and above).

Josie’s House of Help is continuously creating programs that are geared towards our initiatives, education, hunger insecurity, career development, financial literacy, and health.

It is our goal to always move in purpose and ensure that love is forever felt through our acts of service.

RESOURCES

Pre- Employment training for youth 14-17

Senior Painting with a twist

Josie’s House of Help

RESOURCES

Fishers of Men Ministries

Founder: Dawn Moore www.fishersofmencorp.com

Fishers of Men Ministries, is a non-profit organization founded by, Dawn Moore, who is from Willingboro, NJ. The purpose of this organization is to provide, food, clothing and everyday necessities to the homeless and less fortunate (anyone in need). They also pray and minister in the communities. FOM was established right in the middle of the pandemic, July of 2020! During the pandemic, there were many people without and stressed out for many different reasons. FOM has a live band that went to the streets to encourage and uplift!

The vision is to have a building to house the unhoused and have all resources in that same building, a one stop location. It was important for FOM to be birthed so people could feel loved and be encouraged to make it another day. There are so many people that never heard I love you, or how can we help you, and FOM is here to do that and much more. The locations FOM serves is Camden, Burlington and Willingboro, NJ & Philadelphia, PA. (Kensington section). There will be many more cities and states coming in the near future. The mission is to give hope to the hopeless as we lead God’s children to Christ!

Philex Diversified Services

PHLEX (Preparing Healthy Lives 2 Embrace X-cellence) is a juvenile diversion, intervention and prevention program for youth between the ages of 10-17 to decrease entry into the juvenile justice system.

We help youth who become a part of the juvenile justice system through programs that will enhance their overall functioning within the home, school, and community to become successful citizens in society.

PHLEX was established in the state of Arkansas in 2022. Our vision is a community that is drug free, gang free, and violence free where our youth can mature to adulthood with positive life skills and abilities.

Our passion for this project stems from our work experiences in the juvenile justice system that had an extremely high recidivism rate, and some of these youths were bound over to the adult system at the age of 16. Often, they would become adult offenders unable to escape the criminal justice system with no hope for the future.

Preparing Healthy Lives to Embrace X-c-ellent

Founder: Pastor Larry Brown and Dr. Rhonda Brown, PhD

RESOURCES

Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary

Founder: The Late Jacque Evans Current Executive Director: Brittany McDonald

Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing displaced, unwanted, and non-releasable captive-bred wolves, wolfdogs, and other wild canid species.

Founded in 1991, in Ramah, New Mexico, Wild Spirit Sanctuary was created because wolves, wolfdogs, and other wild canids are less successful living in domestic homes, people who purchase or breed these animals often find themselves needing to rehome them. Unfortunately, for some, life turns into a locked cage or limited existence on a chain outside; they are often isolated, abused, or neglected. Furthermore, for the wolves and wolfdogs who are unable to find sanctuary, death by euthanasia or shooting is common. In fact, wolfdogs are often sentenced to death when discovered as pets in states where it is illegal to own one.

Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary operates with an “Animals Come First” attitude. Wild Spirit teaches the public about the humane treatment of wild animals, about the relationships between people and other life through respectful, compassionate co-existence, and about humanity’s important role as having the choice to be a part of the change needed to see ecosystems heal and thrive.

RESCUE To rescue non-releasable, captive-bred, displaced, and unwanted wild canids, especially as a direct result of the exotic pet trade.

To provide each rescue with permanent, safe sanctuary and lifelong care addressing physical, mental, and emotional health and wellness through species-specific nutrition, medical support, enrichment, and animal companionship, when applicable.

SANCTUARY

To educate the public about the plight of our rescued wild canids while providing species-specific information, focusing especially on wolfdogs, how to tell the difference between a wolf, a wolfdog, and a domestic dog, and about the ethical care and treatment of domestic and wild animals alike.

EDUCATION

At Your Service Solutions Group

Founder: Michelle T. Martin

Michelle T. Martin is the CEO of At Your Service Solutions Group, and the founder of the nonprofit, Dream Achievers Resource Center. Through her business, At Your Service Solutions Group, she helps consumers and business owners achieve their dreams of homeownership, entrepreneurship and financial freedom. As the founder of a nonprofit organization herself, nonprofits hold a special place in Martin’s heart, and she feels called to position them so they can tap into the billions of US dollars available in government and private funding.

Having been contracted by nonprofits that operate with million-dollar budgets, Martin knows what it takes to get to that level.

“Unfortunately, there is too much false and incomplete information floating around on how to establish, maintain and grow a nonprofit. It isn’t surprising that many become overwhelmed and/or discouraged,” says Martin. Her goal is simple: demystify nonprofit systems, so organizations can fund their vision.

To make this possible, At Your Service provides everything needed to take an organization from idea to funded. Services include incorporation, 501c3, program development, grant writing, bookkeeping/tax preparation and coaching. Martin also believes in educating leaders, so organizations stay compliant with all federal, state, and local regulations. She also makes sure founders have polices in place to protect their position and aren’t at risk of being booted out of their own organization.

To help as many as possible, in February 2023, Martin is launching a NONPROFIT CHALLENGE so those serious about generating more revenue in 2023 can find a place to learn, develop and fund. Whether you are just starting and haven't raised your first $1 or have been around for a while but looking to expand, this challenge is for you.

To learn more about services offered by Martin or to apply for the challenge visit michelleTmartin.com or call 863-345-2029

GO See the City Last Mile Program

Founder: Aneshai Smith

Food waste is a big problem in the United States, with almost one-third of restaurant food ending up in landfills. Aneshai Smith created GO See the City, which is an app that helps restaurants sell or donate extra food to charities. This way, restaurants can connect to charities in need using the GO See The City Last Mile Program, instead of throwing away unsold food.

For example, if a taco shop has 100 tacos left a few hours before closing time, they can use the app to offer discounted coupons to customers. If they sell 80 of the tacos, they'll still have 20 left over. The taco shop can then GO See The City platform to connect with nearby charities and easily donate the remaining tacos.

The recent Food Donation Improvement Act has made it easier for restaurants to donate food to charities by reducing their liabilities. GO See The City's platform makes it easy for business owners to sell and donate unsold food. Nonprofit organiza-

tions that want to join our Last Mile Program can fill out our form to get in touch with GO See The City.

GO See the City promotes Zero Waste initiatives and reduce food waste as well as donate food to food-insecure communities in Orlando, FL, Gainesville, FL, and Tampa, FL. If you’re located outside of this area and are interested in joining our Last Mile Program please fill out the signup form and when we launch in your area we will reach out to you. Services are provided via the GO See The City APP and Platform

Sign-up form: https://docs.google.com/forms/u/1/d/ e/1FAIpQLSfEEHGfuLOz5poiI8GFPVw0c1jt6Gk zBfa0LH-s6NUDuJmS4A/viewform

waste is a big problem in the United States, with almost one-third of restaurant food ending up in landfills.

Take the Leap You’re Gonna Love Where You Land

What’s the one thing that you put off doing?

Whether you are having trouble finding the courage to get started or just aren’t sure where to begin, it’s almost always better to take a chance. Taking a leap of faith means not worrying about what the future may hold and doing what’s in your heart.

While taking a leap of faith may sound scary at first, it is always better to try than to let fear get the best of us. Sometimes, you just need to start putting things in motion and knowing that everything is going to turn out all right.

Leaps of Faith Don’t Have to Be Big

When people think about taking a leap of faith, they usually assume the jump is related to a monumental event, like planning a trip to an uncharted island. The truth is that we take leaps of faith every day. Some of the smallest things we do make the largest impact on how we live our lives.

A leap of faith can relate to anything you have a

fear of doing. Here are a few examples of common things people put off doing because they fear how it will affect their daily lives:

Going back to school or learning a new professional skill

Changing careers

Buying a new home

Starting a new diet or exercise program

Rekindling an old friendship

The phrase “taking a leap of faith” means taking a chance on anything with unknown consequences. It often has a deeply personal meaning, as you need to relax and know that anything that happens because of your leap is going to be okay.

Don’t Spend the Rest of Your Life Wondering “What If”

It’s natural to have a few regrets in life, but there is nothing worse than wondering “what if” when you are thinking about a past event you could control. No matter what you are thinking about taking a chance on, it’s better to try than to

The phrase “taking a leap of faith” means taking a chance on anything with unknown consequences.

“

Many people don’t take chances because they are too afraid of what might happen.

constantly be looking backward at missed opportunities. While you can’t predict the future, it’s much better to take a chance and start putting things in motion. Even if you fail, you will know that you did your best.

There are Benefits to Failing

Many people don’t take chances because they are too afraid of what might happen. The truth is that people fail every day. It doesn’t matter if they are trying a new diet or starting a new job, things can go wrong. It’s important to know that these setbacks are okay and help us grow as people.

One of the biggest benefits of trying something new and failing is getting the opportunity to learn from your mistakes. Trying multiple times can make your victory feel even better.

Success Feels Great!

Your personal journey may be a little rough

but think of how great you will feel once you finally do succeed. Even if you had to try multiple times to achieve your goals, you will have learned multiple lessons along the way. You may have even discovered new things about yourself, making you appreciate the victory even more!

This year, think about some of the things you always wanted to do and take a leap of faith. You may be surprised by the results!

Many people don’t take chances because they are too afraid of what might happen. ”

The Educator’s Corner

ATeacher 4 Life Tutoring, LLC

The purpose of ‘A Teacher 4 Life Tutoring, LLC’ is in addition to educating students, their minds shall be inspired, one student at a time. The ultimate goal is to instruct the whole child. Because no child should ever be left behind, the mission is to incorporate academics with the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of the whole child at heart. After retiring from a career of teaching, the desire to continue educating children

remained in my heart and soul. And, when covid-19 plagued our world, causing schools to shut down, it was evident that one-on-one tutoring was needed more now than ever before. With strengthened faith, the vision of AT4L Tutoring is to utilize my education and experience thus make an academic and spiritual difference, while impacting the lives of all those I encounter.

Let us now transfer our focus to the most vital component of all school districts the students. Students are deemed successful once they earn a 3.0 GPA or above. Scholarships for higher education are

Inspiring Young Minds One Teacher at a Time

also based on these criteria. And, to maintain the title of student-athlete throughout middle and high school, and then on the college level, one must also maintain at least a 3.0 GPA. This criterion is attainable for students who do not have challenges. However, for students that have learning disabilities and/or varying exceptionalities, or for the students who live in low socio-economic areas and their home environment impedes their ability to learn, a 2.9 or lower may be the best they can achieve. And let us not forget the students on Individual Education Plans. Where does their future lie? If it is the goal of every educator to have their students mature to become self sufficient adults, regardless of their GPA, then it is my request that educators advocate and be the voice for students that tend to fall by the wayside. It is vital for their success.

Continuing one’s education is grand, yet not everyone has an ardent desire to attend a four-year university, can afford to attend, or can even pass the entrance exam required for acceptance. So, what happens to the future of these students that simply cannot achieve at the level of what is acceptable to further their education; do we just give them a special diploma and walk away? Where is the specialized training for the students on this special-diploma track? What happened to the programs that taught skills to students whose test scores proved would not be successful in a college setting? The state claims there is no funding for these types of programs

resources through state funding. These same students, once at the high school level, quickly realize that once they turn eighteen, and graduate, they have not been equipped with any skills to prepare them for a self-sufficient adult life. For those students who do not and/or cannot meet the criteria to further their education, learning a skill/trade should be an available/affordable option while in high school. Trade schools offer career-centered programs that prepare students for specific occupations. We need doctors and lawyers, and we also need plumbers and mechanics. Bringing back skills training/trade school to the high school building will ensure that no child ever gets left behind.

To be continued… Educationally yours, TL. de Govia-Purcell, Ed.S

Trade schools offer career for specific occupations. We need doctors and lawyers, and we

Exercise your POWER to Do Better Everyday

By Javaris JT Yarns

In today’s world, where people are consistently trying to improve their health and show off their physical beauty, The Do Better Brand tells its community to Just "Do Better". The brand appeals to anyone who wants to make a change to their life, physical health and mental health.

Edify and Empower creates an environment where leaders take part and become the author of their own dream. We are all leaders, some of us just don't realize it yet. To help create this environment, the Do Better brand promotes an active and positive lifestyle through its apparel.

The goal of both Edify and Empower and Do Better is to actively pursue a dream of a better life through increased confidence and authenticity.

Let me be clear, to Empower means to help someone do for themselves. When you are empowered (do for self) you feel more confident.

Your dose of the Empowerment Corner will provide you with life

hacks and gems about how to actively and purposefully improve your life and confidence.

So here is your dose for today, Do you truly believe in yourself? You do not have to answer that question right now, but definitely take some time and reflect on it.

It is my belief that selfconfidence or the belief in oneself stems from a combination of childhood experiences, the environment, positive role models and self-images,

encouragement, and affirmation.

Here is the deal, we are totally responsible for our level of self-confidence. However, we are oftentimes provided with people who pour into us, skills to help us overcome adversity and develop. Although we are provided these things, the difference comes down to your willingness to improve and develop.

You have to understand that you are capable of having high self-confidence, but

you have to believe that is the truth and see yourself as a person with high self-confidence.

Stop telling yourself all things you cannot have and all the things you cannot do. Words are powerful and what you consciously and continually tell yourself matters.

At this point you are asking, what is one thing I can do today to being my journey of improving my self-confidence. Well here it is,

Practice Self Love Every Day

This self-confidence building technique is super simple and will take you less than a minute to accomplish. Look in the mirror and force yourself to smile, you will end up being emotionally influenced by the physical action and what you see. Simply put, just by smiling, you will start to experience the positive emotions that are associated with a wonderful smile.

Next, positively speak to yourself, because spoken words can positively affect your emotions.

While affirmations may seem silly, they are powerful. Speak things as though they are. Practice these two things and I promise it will make a difference.

Now that you have some homework, let me add one more thing to your list. Take some time over the next week and answer this question, what is it that you really want out of life, your business or profession?

Until next time, always Do Better and remember, loving yourself is about communicating the right things to yourself.

Javaris “JT” Yarns is a published author, Founder and CEO of Edify and Empower, mastermind behind the Do Better Brand and the developer of the empowerment corner.

Edify and Empower is a leadership coaching and consulting business that helps leaders increase their self-confidence.

JT created Edify and Empower and the Do Better Brand because I saw a need for empowerment not just hope and motivation.

5 Reasons Mentorship Programs Need You

Joining a mentorship program is a great way to make an impact on the world around you. Most people need someone to look up to in their life, whether it be to learn a new skill or have someone to bounce ideas off of. Becoming a mentor can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here are just some of the reasons why you should consider becoming a mentor.

Make an Impact on Someone’s Life

Mentors mean a lot to their mentees. They are a key resource for information and guidance. As a mentor, you will be helping your mentee navigate the world around them and unlock their full potential. Your goal is to make a connection and provide them with the meaningful advice they need to make important decisions.

Share Your Experience in a Meaningful Way

Mentees are eager to learn from your experiences. As a mentor, you’ll have the opportunity to share everything you have learned with your mentee, and they can apply this knowledge to their everyday life. You can show your mentees how your experiences and

past mistakes shaped the person you are today. Many mentees seek advice from their mentors and sharing personal experiences is a great way to strengthen the advice you give. Your experiences won’t just help you build a better relationship with your mentee; they will help them solve everyday problems and make important life decisions.

Strengthen Your Resources

During the mentorship, your mentee is bound to ask you questions. Sometimes, you may not have the answer, or you may need to find the specific resources needed for the situation. This gives you an excellent opportunity to research available resources and strengthen your existing knowledge. You’ll be surprised by the number of new things you can learn during your mentorship!

Improve Your Emotional Intelligence

Building genuine connections with other people isn’t always easy. Mentorship is a great way to improve your communication skills and overall emotional intelligence. You may have some serious conversations with your mentee, whether it is about future career opportunities or problems they may have at home. As you work with your mentee, you will need to assess their emotional state and provide empathy while offering sound advice as

needed. This can take practice and is an incredibly useful skill to have.

Feel Good

One of the biggest reasons people join mentorship programs is because it makes them feel good to help other people in their community. Mentoring someone in need can be a very rewarding experience. You’ll feel great knowing that your advice and friendship truly made a difference in someone else’s life.

How to Become a Mentor

There are several non-profit organizations in need of mentors from a wide range of backgrounds. Giving Hope Again works hard to find new ways to reach out to the community and help those needing a F.R.E.S.H. start. To learn more about mentorship programs in Central Florida or find other ways to get involved in the community, please contact us at info@givinghopeagain.org today.

givinghopeagain.org