I was glad to read an article in the Enterprise-Journal about a non-profit dedicated to youth mentorship. It is called FYWOOP, which stands for Finding Your Way Out Of Poverty. It was founded six years ago by Shaunta McDowell with a mission to help high school students and young people develop leadership skills.
Her group meets monthly, and she is mentoring 15 young people. She offers leadership development classes and community engagement events to reach out to the youth of the community. This is something we have needed for a long time, and it is so very welcome.
Lots of times, all these young people need is a chance to prove themselves, and for someone like Shaunta to believe in them. It is no surprise to me that she is a success. I have read a few things about her and can tell that her life and times hadn’t all been fun and games, and that she went through many tough periods.
But she never gave up. She persevered, and finally, after much hard work, success was hers.
One of the quotes by Shaunta in the newspaper said, “I have always wanted to help young people, and I think they need to learn leadership skills while they are young.”
FYWOOP soon will host its Boss Up event. The proceeds fund the organization through the year and fund scholarships for seniors. This should be a big and welcome boost for our community, and we owe a great big thanks to Shaunta for all she has done on our behalf in her quest of helping others.
Our best to you, now and always, and may God continue to bless you. I just hope you know how much we all love you and appreciate you.
— Debbie Touchstone, Jayess
