Project Legacy Changed His Life and Now He’s Giving Back - Paul's Story
We recently sat down with Paul to learn about his story and his experience with Project Legacy for our annual report. Below are Paul’s inspiring words.
“I started with Project Legacy at the age of 13 after meeting Karen at Calvary Church where I used to play basketball. Karen told me she was starting a program and wanted me to join. The program was designed to help keep kids off the streets and help them get into a safer environment. Karen offered us YMCA passes where we would play basketball, and she offered us tutoring in the subjects we were struggling with. Our relationship continued when I told Karen I was walking to school in the winter - she offered me a ride every day that winter.
What happened in Project Legacy really changed my life. I had two Operation Encourage sponsors during my time in Project Legacy - I developed a great relationship with both and still talk with them on a monthly basis.
Project Legacy opened the doors for opportunities I could not imagine. I was the first one in my family to graduate college, and that made my family, Karen and everyone who helped me proud. The endless support and resources played a huge part in my success. There were times I wanted to quit and give up because I did not see the light at the end of the tunnel, but others did. I was able to find myself and become a better person, which helped me become who I am today.
There were times I wanted to quit and give up because I did not see the light at the end of the tunnel, but others did.”
I recently gave a donation to Project Legacy - it’s just the start of me giving back. This program has allowed me to use my resources and encourage other people, businesses and others to do the same and support programs like Project Legacy.
I would like to thank all of our donors at Project Legacy. Without you, we would not have a strong foundation as a program. Every donation we receive helps relieve the stresses of keeping this program going strong. Finally, to the current participants of Project Legacy: Stay patient and use the resources around you. We can get caught up in things so fast and end up burning ourselves out, but enjoy the process through the good and bad because life will put you to the test to see if you can handle it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, because in Project Legacy, we want everybody to succeed.”