Day 2 - So why did I leave my job in this horrible economy?

Yesterday, I spoke about my decision to leave my job. The economy is horrible, and I don't know where the money will come from to support my family, yet and still I decided to start a non-profit organization. Sounds crazy right?  Personally, I believe that this present economic crisis has created great opportunities for those who have put their dreams on hold. The misfortunes in the workplace have created a gateway for those of us who have always wanted to start some form of a business, but were too afraid, or never had the time.

The name of my non-profit organization is called The Vision Lab Educational Wellness Center. I have partnered with my sister, Nakia Mitchell, and one of the Special Education teachers that I supervised in the past, Corneil Montgomery. Nakia is a massage therapist, and Corneil continues to teach special education in the public school system. We all have our roles, and we do a great job of staying in our lanes which makes this a wonderful marriage amongst the 3 of us. I know that marriages are supposed to be between 2 people, but in this case it is 3.

The purpose of the organization is to use a holistic approach to educate students in a way that is relevant while also helping them to develop and execute their visions. The goal of the organization is to assist in filling in the service, academic, social, emotional, physical, financial, and environmental gaps that our youth are experiencing, specifically those who live in urban communities, have learning disabilities, and who do not have the financial supports to do the things that will make them well-rounded individuals.

So what makes this youth program so much more different than all the other programs? My answer is that most programs are not that different from one another as it relates to the types of programs provided because most of us understand the basic developmental foundations needed for youth to succeed. Therefore, the significant difference is the implementation process, and our ability to embrace and specialize in students with learning disabilities.

Why these demographics? African American students continue to represent the highest percentage of drop-out rates, the highest percentage of students with disabilities, the highest percentage of individuals who lack economic empowerment, and I can go on and on... With all of the wonderful youth programs available, these issues continue plague our communities. I am not suggesting that I have the answer to all of these problems, but I do have the mental capacity, and will to do my part in addressing these issues. The solutions to these issues will not be solved by one man. It will take collaborative efforts amongst communities and organizations who have a desire to rectify these problems.