The Forward STEPS initiative is dedicated to fostering community understanding of poverty and supporting under-served neighbors on their journey to self-sufficiency. Participants in Getting Ahead and other Forward STEPS programs embody the “Hope for Tomorrow” aspect of Second Harvest’s mission. We are pleased to share a few of their stories here.
Thank you to Carol Bradshaw, Forward STEPS Manager for providing these stories!
Nurturing Dreams
Raquel’s journey with Second Harvest’s Getting Ahead program began with a whisper from a former Circle’s ally, stirring within her a desire for change. She took a leap into the unknown, eager to unearth new possibilities.
Driven by a yearning to reshape her spending habits, Raquel embarked on the 16-week Getting Ahead program in 2022, securing her spot with determination. Each session peeled back layers of what, revealing insights into her circumstances, and igniting a hunger for more.
Seizing the opportunity to delve deeper, Raquel delved into the THRIVE coaching component of the class. They mapped out her budget amidst the aroma of coffee at McDonald’s. Over time, these meetings became sacred spaces for Raquel to unwind, ponder the week’s triumphs and tribulations, and envision her future.
Fueled by her coach’s guidance, Raquel’s spirit soared. Raquel’s budgeting efforts bore fruit as she chipped away at her credit card debt and nurtured dreams of entrepreneurship. Raquel’s aspirations of a health care career took flight, promising a path that would keep her close to her three daughters. Raquel continues to meet barriers head-on. Sometimes they set her back, but her resilience and newfound vision for the future keep her moving forward.
Roots of Change
Thanks to a donation from Wise Country Market, two Delaware County children discovered the joy and value of growing their own food to help their family become more self-sufficient.
A family friend brought the donated vegetable plants to the kids, and together, they planted a small garden in their backyard. “Part of the gardening lesson was failure,” the family friend said. “Plants die, and I fully expected some of the plants to die. But I was so surprised, and a bit jealous, when the kids proudly showed me their garden a month later, with their cucumber plant thriving better than mine!”
Their mom, who admits she doesn’t usually enjoy planting, has found peace in watering the garden each night. The whole family is excited to harvest their first crop and is already talking about expanding their garden next season.
Eggstraordinary Generosity
In Getting Ahead, participants like Steve are encouraged to evaluate their own resources and capacities while also recognizing the strengths and potential of their community members. Steve, graduate of the 23rd Getting Ahead Class, raises chickens at home, and started bringing cartons of eggs to share with his cohort.
“Pay it forward. That’s what it’s all about, right?” Steve’s actions beautifully embody the essence of paying it forward and the principles of community support and empowerment. By generously sharing his abundance with his fellow Getting Ahead investigators, he not only demonstrated kindness but also exemplified the core values of the program – mutual support and collaboration. It’s not just about individual progress; it’s about lifting each other up collectively.
Steve’s gesture illustrates the ripple effect of reciprocity and inspired to do the same. This creates a positive cycle of empowerment and assistance, where everyone contributes what they can and benefits from the collective effort.
Ultimately, Steve’s actions showcase the transformative power of community-driven initiatives like Getting Ahead, where individuals like him actively apply the principles they learn to make a meaningful difference in their own lives and the lives of those around them.
Finding Strength in Community
As part of the Staying Ahead curriculum, participants set SMART goals to help them progress. Staying Ahead complements the Getting Ahead program for graduates by providing essential resources at no cost. It fosters connections, builds social capital, and helps participants discover their passions and purpose, keeping them focused on shaping their future. David set a goal to quit smoking.
David had been a smoker for 45 years, and despite several attempts to quit, including quitting for eight months, he continued smoking. He shared, “I’ve been reflecting on my life and the promise I made to my family after my heart attack to be better. Then in class I saw the stress others dealt with and thought I could do better. So, when it was time to make our SMART goals, I knew what mine was, and with the support of my family and the class, I know I’ll keep it.”
We all have a story to tell. If you’d like to share your story of the consequences of need and the resounding hope that is possible through determination, education, and community, we’d love to hear it!
