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Womans First Job Was to Scrub Toilets at McDonalds - Now, She Owns 12 Restaurants
Entrepreneurs

Womans First Job Was to Scrub Toilets at McDonalds - Now, She Owns 12 Restaurants

Tanya Hill-Holliday is a familiar name in the McDonald's franchise. But she wasn't always. "I was told I wasn't supposed to be here, I was called every name BUT my name," she told CBS News.Luckily, she didn't listen. Now, she's the proud owner of a dozen McDonald's restaurants in Pennsylvania and her story of perseverance is inspiring others to dream big. From Scrubbing Toilets to Making History as Philly’s First Black Woman to Own a McDonald’sTanya Hill-Holliday landed her first job working as a part-time crew member at McDonald's while attending Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. She was cleaning toilets, scrubbing baseboards, and wiping tables. It was far from glamorous. But that didn't matter, she enjoyed it anyway. "I always enjoyed what I was doing, as difficult as it was to be told, 'You got to clean a table, you got to clean the toilets, you got to scrub the baseboards." "'You got to do...' I did it."Tanya Hill-Holliday via CBS PhiladelphiaUpon graduating from university with a degree in management, she immediately jumped into the McDonald's management trainee program. She's never looked back. From there, she crawled her way up the corporate ladder, from crew member to supervisor to assistant manager to vice president. Despite being constantly told she didn't belong, she ignored the haters, put her head down, and just kept on working. It paid off.She's Lovin' It!Forty-four years and 13 positions later, Holliday is now the proud owner of a dozen restaurants. Using her stock options, she bought her very first franchise in 2005. Today, it's worth over $1.5 million. Not only was it her first restaurant, it was a first in the Philly history books. She is recognized as the very first African American woman to own and operate a McDonald’s in the “City of Brotherly Love.” Since then, she's purchased 11 more restaurants. Currently, she has more than 600 employees, some of whom have been with her from day one. She considers them all family.And now, she's giving back. She serves as the National Black McDonald’s Operators Association Chair and CEO of 168 entities across the U.S. According to its website, the NBMOA is "the largest organization of established African American entrepreneurs in the world."As the Chair and CEO, Holliday is committed to ensuring that "McDonald’s fully engages the African American community in an authentic, respectful, and positive manner." She plans to implement new and innovative programming to enrich the members and benefit the communities they serve. Never Give up on Your DreamsHolliday hopes her journey will inspire young people just starting out on theirs. "When you think you've hit a brick wall, go over the wall, go around the wall — if you gotta go under the wall — do what you have to do but just don't let roadblocks stop you. Keep persistent. Be strong."Tanya Hill-HollidayA little praying doesn't hurt either."Stay motivated, stay encouraged, stay prayed up. I stay prayed up all the time," Holliday added.With sheer perseverance and tenacity, Holliday proved her critics wrong. Not only that, but she went all the way, rising to the top AND making history. Not bad for a woman who started by scrubbing toilets.Her story is an inspiration to all of us. A trailblazer and a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, she proves that determination, resilience, and the refusal to give up can lead to achieving even our wildest dreams. More from Goalcast:Freezing Homeless Man Goes to a Closed McDonald’s – Manager Defies All Rules and Does ThisLittle Girl Starts Screaming at McDonald’s – Mom Burst into Tears After Seeing One Employee’s ActionsWoman Takes Brother With Autism to McDonald’s – One Employee’s Behavior Towards Him Goes Viral

Margot Robbie Vowed She Would Pay Her Mom Back for What She Did Early on in Her Career - And She Kept Her Promise
Uplifting News

Margot Robbie Vowed She Would Pay Her Mom Back for What She Did Early on in Her Career - And She Kept Her Promise

The world is watching Margot Robbie right now. The Barbie star has been making headlines for her killer Barbie red carpet looks and for her role in the history-making film. But it wasn’t always fame and fortune for the 33-year-old star. In fact, growing up in Australia, things were hard for Robbie and her mom.Supporting a DreamLONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 12: Cast and filmmakers light up London pink to celebrate the European Premiere of Barbie, in cinemas 21 July. At London Eye on July 12, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images for Warner Bros.)Growing up, Robbie always knew she wanted to act. She was only in Grade 12 when she broke the news to her mom, Sarie Kessler, according to Vogue Australia. Robbie’s mom was shocked because her daughter was so good at school.Kessler was also worried that it would be hard to be an actor and make a good living, plus they had a big family to support, including three siblings. “We had to figure things out and work through the difficulties of having tight budgets,” Kessler told the publication.Still, she was intent on supporting her daughter. Robbie wasn’t successful overnight, either. Early on in her career, she would rely on her mom to help keep her afloat. Sometimes, that meant her mom would take money from her mortgage."I have that piece of paper still. I kept it. Everything I owed my mom, I had it written down."Margot RobbieRobbie kept track of all the times her mother helped her, though, and knew that one day she would pay her back.“She’d take money out of the house mortgage and lend me money, so I always knew, ‘Oh, I’ve got to pay that back,’” she told CBS Sunday Morning. Paying It BackEventually, though, Robbie did make it big. When she was 17 years old, she started out with a part in the popular Aussie soap Neighbours. It took a few years from there, but when Robbie was 22, she landed a game-changing role opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street.From there, she got parts in The Legend of Tarzan, I, Tonya, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and The Suicide Squad, and she also started her own production company, LuckyChap Entertainment.Now, she’s known globally as Barbie, a role that came with a $12.5 million payday."Honestly, anyone in my position, you'd do that for your mom. Of course, you would."Margot RobbieThe first thing Robbie did when she hit it big? She paid every single cent back to her mom.“One day, when I made enough money, I just paid that whole mortgage off completely,” Robbie told CBS. “I was like, 'Mom, don't even worry about that mortgage anymore. It doesn't even exist anymore. Honestly, anyone in my position, you'd do that for your mom. Of course, you would.”Supporting the People You LoveThis story is incredibly moving because it just goes to show you how important it can be for a parent to support their child’s dream. Imagine that Robbie’s mother hadn’t done what she did for her daughter. Robbie probably wouldn’t have gone on to play the world’s most famous doll.It’s a nice reminder to all of us that even though you may not relate to someone else’s dream, it’s always important to support those you love however you can. Showing faith and trust in the people you love can be the thing they need in order to keep going, especially when things get rough.Not all of us can put our finances on the line in these kinds of circumstances, but we can be supportive in other ways. Take these dreams seriously. Ask questions. Be a cheerleader. And don’t be the one to squash their hope. There are plenty of other people out there who can do that for you. As a loved one, our job is to just be there.More from Goalcast:21-Year-Old Receives His First Paycheck – Uses It to Completely Pay Off His Parents’ Mortgage for ChristmasDeaf Son Brings Mom To Tears By Using His Savings To Secretly Pay Off Her MortgageSon Brings Parents To Tears By Revealing He Secretly Paid Off Their Mortgage

10-Year-Old Sells Lemonade to Help Her Mom Buy Clothes for the Family - Now, She Has Taken Her Business to New Heights
Uplifting News

10-Year-Old Sells Lemonade to Help Her Mom Buy Clothes for the Family - Now, She Has Taken Her Business to New Heights

Running a lemonade stand seems almost a rite of passage for kids everywhere. Many share the common memory of setting one up in the summer, hand making a sign, and hoping to make a few extra dollars. The process instills a sense of responsibility, independence, and early financial acumen. For many, it might be just a fun summer activity, or way to interact with the community. However, one young girl in Fort Wayne, Indiana took her lemonade stand to new heights. The Business Venture a 10-Year-Old Girl Has StartedUnsplash/ John Angel10-year-old Naivy Bloxson and her two siblings started their stand like many other children to help their mother buy school supplies and clothes for the family. However theirs has continued for six years, turning into a small enterprise! Their mother, Danielle Bloxson, says it’s even grown so much that the kids have extra money to buy things like hoverboards and scooters to ride around.However, the venture is not solely driven by profit. Speaking on the various benefits of the stand, Naivy's mother told a local publication: “It’s so awesome. I work in a school, so I know how important those things are: learning, counting money, interacting with people you know all of those things are such great assets to have when they get older.”The success of their stand is no stroke of luck, though. Naivy is a shrewd marketer, and has even taken to using the hashtag #BestLemonadeinthe08 to promote her budding business on social media, for example. A cup of lemonade at her stand is priced reasonably at 50 cents, and a gallon is available for $5. They even have a variety of flavors, including raspberry and cherry pomegranate lemonade -- as well as a strong selection of snacks to choose from.Why a Little Girl Loves Her Lemonade StandThe stand has become a fixture in the community, and the local police department is even a loyal patron. Many of her customers are regulars now, and have grown familiar with both the business, and it's charming young executive. “It’s really good because I get to meet a lot of new people every day. So it gives me more confidence in doing the lemonade stand,” Naivy told another publication. She also added that she’s picking up valuable skills from running the stand, “like learning how to count money better and learning how it would be like to have my own business when I’m older.”For the young entrepreneur, the stand is clearly more than just an avenue to buy more hoverboards and scooters. Meeting new people and engaging with customers enhances her confidence, laying a strong foundation for future endeavors. In fact, though her mother originally purchased the stand, she has since been paid back entirely -- making young Naivy a bonafide business owner. How One Little Girl Proves the Importance of CommitmentUnsplash/ Rod LongEntrepreneurs of all ages can learn from Naivy's ambition. While her journey certainly sets a strong example for children everywhere, even older entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from her attitude and resolve. Naivy likely had to weather slow phases of the business, engaging in trial and error with elements such as marketing and pricing. While many are quick to celebrate success stories such as this one, what often gets overlooked is the persistence to stick with a plan even when it seems futile. So, let Naivy's story be a reminder to those of all ages: success is not solely measured by immediate results but by the unwavering commitment to one's dreams and resilience. Through persistence, adaptability, and an unyielding belief in our vision, we too can overcome obstacles and forge a path to success in any field. Naivy's journey serves as a timeless example that no matter age or circumstance, our goals are always within reach if we have the courage to persist. Time will tell where Naivy's path leads her, but it will certainly benefit from her early business experience. More from Goalcast:An 8-Year-Old’s Dad Tragically Took His Own Life – So She Starts a Lemonade Stand to Prevent More Kids From Losing Their ParentsStranger Approaches Kids at Their Deserted Lemonade Stand – Their Mom Secretly Films the Interaction

Man Was Refused a Loan Because He Was Broke - 18 Years Later, He Buys the Same Bank for $590K
Entrepreneurs

Man Was Refused a Loan Because He Was Broke - 18 Years Later, He Buys the Same Bank for $590K

We all remember our lowest points. The memories from those times never leave us: what happened, how we got out of it, but also how we were treated when we needed help the most. Adam Deering never forgot his humble beginnings. In 2002, he was near-broke, and tried to get a £10,000 loan at the RBS branch in Urmston, Greater Manchester. He was denied.The once almost penniless man is now a wealthy businessman, and he’s marked the difference two decades can make by buying the bank that denied him his first chance. This is how he did it.The Bank Refused Him a Loan at His Lowest PointPhoto by Yurii HleiAt the age of 21, Adam had ambitious plans for his future. Believing in his capacities, he decided to take a chance on himself and his business idea."I quit my job as a salesman aged 21 because I knew I had it in me to create a successful business, but I didn't have a penny to my name so I needed a bank loan," Adam said in Daily Mail.He walked into the bank fully prepared, but got a crushing response.I presented them with a comprehensive business plan and asked for £10,000 but the bank manager didn't seem to take me seriously at all.Adam Deering"I was devastated when she told me I was too young and inexperienced and there was no way they could take a risk on me," Adam continued.But He Never Gave Up on His PlanDespite the disappointing defeat, Adam never abandoned his idea. At the time, he went right back to work, toiling hard from the floor of a small office as he could not afford a desk and a chair.Without the money I spent four months cold calling people from the floor of a small office because I couldn't even afford a desk and a chair.Adam Deering"Those early months were so difficult, not knowing if I was going to be able to make it work and not knowing if I'd be able to pay my bills," he continued.He finally got help from his good samaritan neighbor, Chris, who helped him set his life straight and get a job. He ended up working in debt management (ironically) and then quit when he was ready to launch his own venture. 18 Years Later, the Tables Have TurnedWhile the beginnings of his venture were not easy, Adam continued to believe. He spent his last pennies from his sales salaries to rent a small office."There were lots of times where I thought it was the end, but I refused to give up and it paid off," he said.Eventually, his hard work yielded amazing results. Adam now heads five multi-million companies, so he could well afford to buy the bank's building for £450,000. His plans is to renovate and convert the building into an 8-apartment complex and a retail unit.Adam spends his free time now as a motivational speaker, helping to guide others as he has been guided himself back when he was a teenager who was expelled from school and spent his time doing small-time crime before falling into a cycle of getting fired from jobs.Determination Always Pays OffThe businessman said: "Building a business from scratch certainly isn't easy and there are always times when you wonder if it is going to work out. The key is to stay true to your vision and keep going, there will always be hurdles to overcome.""When I was turned down for the loan, it was tough but because I had a dream and I was so focused on achieving it, I made it happen anyway," he admitted.Adam was able to turn a defeat into an incredible win, even if it took years for it to materialize. Buying the bank that refused him was a celebration of his own resilience."To me, buying the bank building brings things back full circle and it shows that I was right to keep believing in myself," Adam said.More from Goalcast:“He Started Crying”: Man Stops Bank Robbery By Talking to Him and Giving Him a HugBank Calls Police On 92-Year-Old For Creating Disturbance – Officer Leads Him Away And Reacts UnexpectedlyHow A Struggling Single Mom With $12 In Her Bank Account Rescued Herself To Become A Millionaire CEO

Millionaire Sees 12-Year-Old Boy Studying Under Street Light - Is So Moved He Builds Him a Home
Everyday Heroes

Millionaire Sees 12-Year-Old Boy Studying Under Street Light - Is So Moved He Builds Him a Home

Education is an opportunity many of us may take for granted. Whether it is because we grew up in homes that “expected” us to pursue education, or it’s because we live in societies where there is greater access to education, many of us are guilty of overlooking just how grateful we really should be.Street SmartPhoto by Francesco UngaroWell, there is one young boy, Victor Angulo, who did not take his education for granted. In fact, at the young age of 12 years old, Victor was discovered night after night studying underneath a streetlamp.You see, Victor’s family did not have electricity at their home in Moche, Peru, so every night Victor ventured to the streets of Moche to read and complete his homework underneath the outdoor street light.Someone recorded a video of Victor studying at night, and it went viral, for good reason. It is heartbreaking and the image is unforgettable. But, while the photo of a 12-year-old boy laying out on the sidewalk alone completing his studies under a streetlamp at night is a difficult image for the heart to handle, it also prompted one good samaritan into action.From Business Man to BenefactorYaqoob Mubarak, a millionaire and businessman from Bahrain, took matters into his own hands. The issue was clear: Victor’s family needed help. Mubarak decided to venture to Moche himself, and build Victor and his family a new home. Furthermore, he decided to give the family money so that they could start a business."Thank you for the help you are offering, thank you very much because you are helping us to build our school (...) to continue studying."Victor AnguloAnd they say angels don’t exist.The beautiful thing about both Victor Angulo’s actions and Yaqoob Mubarak’s is that they both took matters into their own hands. Victor did not have electricity at home but was determined to obtain an education, and so he went to far lengths to study. Yaqoob Mubarak identified a need and recognized that he could provide the solution, and so he did. Both Victor and Yaqoob did what had to be done, and that is always an admirable trait.Taking Matters Into Our Own HandsWhen we go to far lengths, whether it be for ourselves or for others, we expend energy. As human beings we only have so much energy to expend in a day. However, we allocate this internal resource towards what we believe requires our immediate attention.Victor believed it was worth it to spend his nights studying under a streetlight and Yaqoob believed it was worth it to build him a house so he could do so in privacy, with dignity, and within the comfort of his own home. Both believed in the value of pursuing an education, which at the end of the day truly leaves you to wonder -- what is the real value of an education?Upon closer reflection one may come to realize that the opportunities that come with an education are exponential.The amassing of knowledge and life skills are essential for providing equal opportunities, so that no other young boy like Victor Angulo at 12 years old, has to lay on the sidewalk under a streetlamp so that he can complete his education.More from Goalcast:Homeless Man Bursts Into Tears After Finding Out Strangers Raised Over $15,000 For Him to Buy a HouseAfter Sleeping on Garage Floor, Homeless Boy Sobs When He Learns His Family Finally Has a HouseMom and Her 4 Kids Were Stuck in an Abusive Situation – So She Built Her Own House Using YouTube to EscapeGive back to those who need itWhether it's saving someone at sea or giving up your plane seat, kindness makes a lasting impact.

Mom Refuses to Terminate Her Pregnancy After Doctors Suggest It - Now Her Toddler Is Proving Everyone Wrong
Uplifting News

Mom Refuses to Terminate Her Pregnancy After Doctors Suggest It - Now Her Toddler Is Proving Everyone Wrong

Expecting the birth of a child is often the highlight of any parent's life. Michael and Michelle Bower were no exception; they were overjoyed when they learned they were having a daughter. The Indiana couple's excitement took a turn, however, when they found out about some major complications at the 20-week mark. An ultrasound informed them that their daughter had a condition called spina bifida, a type of neural tube defect that can cause paralysis, changes to the brain, and severe trauma injuries to the nerves.How a Little Girl Proved Doctors WrongThe parents-to-be were devastated when doctors informed them their child would likely be unable to walk, talk, or breathe on their own. They even suggested Michelle terminate the pregnancy -- the odds of a healthy life for a child with this condition so unlikely. However, Michelle and Michael were determined to see it through. They decided to go through with one of the riskiest types of surgery, one that would attempt to close the opening in their baby's spine -- while still in utero. So Michelle underwent surgery on April 27, 2020, with over 35 medical professionals present for the delicate, 3-hour long, operation. Michelle was then confined to a strict bed rest for the rest of her pregnancy.Ultimately, the couple's daughter -- Lacey -- was delivered via a cesarean section on July 20. Lacey was immediately taken to intensive care, where she spent the next 18 days learning to feed and beginning to wiggle her toes and ankles. Doctors determined she was partially paralyzed from the waist down, but Lacey soon began to surprise everyone, and hasn't stopped since. At just 19-months-old, Lacey was able to speak at the level of an average 3-year-old. Soon after, she even began to maneuver her body more than doctors ever expected. The Miracle One Couple WitnessedNow at 3 years old, she has even taken her first steps with the help of a walker. In the above video shared to Michael's Facebook page, Lacey can be seen walking up the family's driveway with her walker. The parents regularly share updates regarding Lacey's development to the Facebook page, which has now become a beacon of hope for others with similarly challenging medical conditions. "Every day you get to witness a miracle," Michael proudly told a publication. “It really is incredible because one year ago, she was standing for the first time,” he marveled. “You know, doing something we never thought we’d see Lacey do. And now it’s been a year, and she can walk in her walker, and I mean completely supporting all of her own weight, which is just incredible, and I truly believe we’re going to get to a point where she doesn’t even need a walker. She has that drive.”How One Little Girl Proved the Importance of PerseveranceThis drive is the most impressive part of Lacey's journey, and precisely what makes her such an inspiration. Despite the bleak outlook of her diagnosis, Lacey is a ray of joy. She is rarely seen without a smile on her face, and is constantly laughing. She remains clever, inquisitive, and determined -- traits her parents believe have helped her defy the odds. Lacey is the embodiment of perseverance. She possesses an unstoppable spirit, and is a shining example of the power of determination. Her progress exhibited on Facebook is now an inspiration to hundreds of thousands who follow the updates. Most recently, her father shared an update that Lacey would begin preschool.By all accounts, Lacey is beating the odds of her diagnosis, and leading a full life. Her story is an inspiration for any facing hurdles in their life, beyond medical challenges. The strength of her spirit is remarkable, and can teach us all to keep going, especially when it seems most difficult. More from Goalcast:Doctors Wanted to Put Baby with Down Syndrome in an Institution – 15 Years Later, She Proves Them WrongGirl Who ‘Can’t Smile’ Is Constantly Bullied by Classmates – Years Later, Proves Everyone Wrong and Becomes a SupermodelBlack Woman’s Family Thinks She’s “Crazy” to Quit Her Full Time Job – Proves Everyone Wrong by Achieving Her Dream

She Was Born in Prison and Then Raised by a Single Dad - Years Later, Shes Going to Harvard on a Full Scholarship
Motivation

She Was Born in Prison and Then Raised by a Single Dad - Years Later, Shes Going to Harvard on a Full Scholarship

"I was born in prison." It was the opening line of a powerful admissions essay for Harvard University. But it was also the beginning of Aurora Sky Castner's life.Eighteen years ago, Castner was born in the Galveston County jail. Her mother, who had a history of criminal activity was sentenced to an extended term just months before her birth.Days after she was born, Castner's bipolar father picked her up from prison and raised her as a single dad, per the Courier. Today, she just graduated third in her class at Conroe High School and is heading to Harvard. She plans to study law. How a Teen Who Started in Prison Ended Up at HarvardCastner is no stranger to adversity. Born in jail, abandoned by her mother, raised by a single father struggling with his mental health, and faced with the many challenges that come with childhood trauma and living in poverty, her road hasn't been easy.But it's a road she hasn't had to travel alone. During elementary school, her teachers recognized her potential and felt she would benefit from a community mentoring program. They linked her with CISD’s Project Mentor program which partners volunteers with students in need.And that's when Mona Hamby stepped in. Castner didn't know it then, but Hamby would become one of her greatest cheerleaders and coach.The moment Hamby met the little girl, she knew she was special. "I was given a paper about her. Her hero was Rosa Parks, her favorite food was tacos from Dairy Queen and she loved to read," Hamby told the Houston Chronicle."I thought this sounds like a bright little girl."Hamby did more than just provide academic tutoring. She took the quiet girl under her wing and provided a much-needed respite for her overwhelmed dad. She helped Castner with day-to-day things like picking out new glasses and going for her first salon haircut. “It was a very different environment than I grew up in and that’s not a bad thing,” Castner said. “Everything that Mona taught me was very valuable in the same way that everything that I went through before Mona was very valuable.” How a Network of Supporters Made All the Difference to a Girl Born in a Prison CellOther community members also played a pivotal role in Castner's life. Including a Boston University professor who helped the teen write the essay that would wow the Harvard admissions committee, and ultimately, lead to her early acceptance to the Ivy League school.It truly does take a village. Despite the odds stacked against her, Castner has managed to defy her origins and redefine her life. Rather than be weighted down by the socio-economic obstacles in her life, once-strangers helped to buoy her up. She excelled at school, earning straight A's. In high school, she enrolled in the Academy for Health and Science Professions in the hopes of realizing her dream of going to Harvard. A dream she's had forever. In an Instagram post that has since been made private, Mona Hamby wrote: "Girl set a goal to go to Harvard in elementary school despite being born in poverty. Received full scholarship to attend Harvard in 2023."Mona Hamby via InstagramNot only is Castner headed to Harvard, but she's doing it on a full scholarship.Never Imprison Your DreamsAt only 18 years old, Castner has defied societal expectations. And while she credits others with her success there's no denying that without her strength, determination, and resilience, she wouldn't be where she is today.She had a dream and she pursued it relentlessly, despite the odds against her. She didn't allow her past to dictate her future. And luckily for her, she had tremendous support along the way.Castner is living proof that it doesn't matter where you start. What matters is where you finish.More from Goalcast:16-Year-Old Student Accepted to Over 186 Colleges — Receives More Than $10 Million in Scholarship OffersMan Forced to Become Trash Collector When No College Would Accept Him – Then, His Brother Drops Out and Makes a Huge Sacrifice

Woman Quits Her 6-Figure Corporate Job to Become a Mechanic - And Its All Because of One Internet Search
Uplifting News

Woman Quits Her 6-Figure Corporate Job to Become a Mechanic - And Its All Because of One Internet Search

We’ve all heard the saying ‘If you want things done right, you have to do them yourself.’ One woman in Pennsylvania made it her mission to help women everywhere, with their cars.Why One Woman Decided to Become a MechanicPhoto by arvin latifiPatrice Banks grew up with a single mother. They came from humble beginnings and were on welfare for most of Patrice’s young life. In a struggling household, Patrice was committed to shifting the dynamic. She graduated from LeHigh University with an engineering degree and began working a 6-figure job at DuPont shortly after. It was all looking great for Patrice, but something was missing. “I didn’t feel like I was making a difference,” Patrice said. “It was just coming to work, going to meetings. It was a rat race.”Because of her upbringing, Patrice felt like she had a duty to empower more women in her community. She began to shift gears. When she was online looking for a female mechanic, she noticed there weren’t any.“I remember the first thing that popped up was the top 10 stock images of female mechanics,” she said. She knew that other women go through the same trouble with male mechanics and wanted to make a change. While still working full-time at DuPont, Patrice enrolled in auto mechanic night classes. To no one’s surprise, she was the only female in any of her classes but she stayed true to her mission.How One Woman Proved It’s Never Too Late to Pursue a PassionAfter graduating, Patrice decided to quit her 6-figure corporate job to continue to pursue her passion. She got a job at a local auto shop and never regretted her decision. “I could be fifty and been like, ‘What have I done with my life?’” she said. “You can always get back money, you can’t get back time.”Patrice continued working for the shop for 3 years before realizing her dream and opening up her own auto repair shop Girls Auto Clinic. At her clinic, Patrice and her team take women through the step by step process of repairing their car. They provide a non-judgemental environment that their clients love. “I don’t think cars, I think women,” Patrice mentioned.There is one unique touch of service that the Girls Auto Clinic provides. While a client is waiting for their car, they can hang out in the shop and get their nails done. “We want women to feel like they can be themselves and just relax,” she said. Patrice is killing two birds with one stone and her clients couldn’t be happier.Patrice came a long way from where she grew up. She didn’t have much privilege as a child and continued to push boundaries throughout her life. Even in moments of doubt, she could always see the path that she was walking on. Her heart brought her to the right place to help the people she cares about. Patrice recognized there was an unfair dynamic towards women in the automotive industry. The only way could fix it was to do it herself!

The YMCA in Cleveland Is Helping Recovering Addicts Stay off Drugs Youll Be Shocked When You Find Out How
Success Stories

The YMCA in Cleveland Is Helping Recovering Addicts Stay off Drugs Youll Be Shocked When You Find Out How

On any given Sunday afternoon in Cleveland Ohio, an unassuming theater in the Gordon Square Arts District is filled with eager patrons, while actors prepare for a show backstage.They undergo the typical pre-show rituals, gathering as a group, shaking out their jitters, and huddling to share one last prayer of encouragement. These actors, however, aren't like others typically in theater.Before hitting the stage, these actors also recite a serenity prayer common in recovery groups-- “One foot in for the ones still sick and suffering.” The "Weird" YMCA For the past 24 years, clients from Y-Haven, a recovery program for adults experiencing homelessness and addiction in Cleveland, Ohio, have processed their recovery through the performing arts. The Y-Haven office and residential building is on the eastern side of Cleveland. Formerly a public housing building built in the 1960s, the site was occupied by Y-Haven 26 years ago, three years after the group's founding. The YMCA parent organization has eleven branches across Greater Cleveland and many more across the United States but, “We are kind of the weird one,” explains Ed Gemerchak, vice president of behavioral health for the YMCA and executive director of Y-Haven, “Not many YMCAs do something like this.”Initially, Y-Haven focused on serving men experiencing homelessness but is now primarily a residential treatment facility for both men and women with substance abuse problems. “We're a little more focused on doing that clinical service,” says Ed. “And we've expanded our reach and our size. I think our budget's about tripled over the last seven years. Our staff has nearly tripled because there's such a need here.”Tony Serna, Director of Homeless Clinical Services at Y-Haven, says, “We've always considered ourselves a holistic program.” This quality distinguishes Y-Haven from the many other recovery programs in Ohio and beyond. Part of this holistic approach is the innovative performing arts practice that sets Y-Haven apart.“I’ve Never Had Anybody Clap for Me”(FreshWater Cleveland)The initiative is a collaboration between Y-Haven and Cleveland Public Theater, the latter of which was formed in 1981 by James Levin with the mission of "raising consciousness and nurturing compassion" through theater. For the last 24 years this has included the Y-Haven project and it is easy to see why.When Chip Joseph, Y-Haven’s former director, attended CPT’s rendition of Shakespeare in the Park, he immediately felt that Y-Haven clients belonged on stage. A personal friend of Levin, Chip insisted, “You have to do this!” -- referring to a partnership. Many of the actors who participate in the program have never set foot on a stage before, or considered themselves someone who might. For example, one participant-- Samantha-- said, “I've never had anybody clap for me. I was never in sports, so to get a standing ovation was awesome.” Another participant, Adam, shared “I had this inclination towards creative arts my entire life and I just didn't know where to apply myself.” He used the Y-Haven program to act on this instinct and self actualize in a powerful way. The most recent production was a play titled In Our Wake, led by Melissa Crum. The play tells the story of the main character, Amari, as she searches for forgiveness and reconciliation following the death of her mother. According to a write-up on the play, "Amari represents, not one singular experience, but a collection of memories threaded through the lives of the cast, a diverse group of men and women."It’s All About Process(YMCA)However, the process of rehearsal and development of the play is just as valuable as the final performance. “We kind of put them through all the theater training you could imagine,” says Crum, “just telling stories and sharing stories and hearing where they're coming from and what's important to them and what they want to say.” “One of the gifts of art itself,” she says, “is this ability to dive deeper into yourself.” In this way, the production became a vital part of the larger rehabilitative program, an avenue for powerful therapeutic work. Y-Haven in Cleveland is a shining example of new avenues for introspection, healing, and growth through art. It is also an example of redemption, offering those in recovery a chance to participate in a world of performing arts they might not have imagined themselves a part of. The program offers audiences and performers a powerful new perspective, and hopefully inspires others like it.

This Couple Bought and Revamped an Abandoned Laundromat Now Its a Thriving Community Hub With Free Laundry Days
Success Stories

This Couple Bought and Revamped an Abandoned Laundromat Now Its a Thriving Community Hub With Free Laundry Days

When Covid-19 decided to throw a giant wrecking ball into our lives, no one saw it coming. Life as we knew it literally changed overnight, tumbling our worlds upside down and inside out.Covid changed a lot of things for a lot of people. Including Jon and Erin Carpenter.If someone would have told them two years ago that today they would be the proud owners of a laundromat, they probably would have thought they were crazy. Yet, if someone would have told us that the entire world would be shut down because of a global pandemic, we would have thought they were crazy too. And yet, here they are.How One Couple's Journey to Laundromat Ownership Unfolded(ABC)Back in 2020, right smack dab in the middle of covid, Jon and Erin got married. They decided that the most Covid-friendly honeymoon would be to rent a camper van and cruise up Highway 1 along the pacific west coast. And that's where laundromats come in. "We saw all different types of laundromats and all different types of people that go to laundromats," Jon told GMA. "We would see some really cool ones that were ... in higher-end locations and they would have brew on tap and have all this stuff for those areas, but when we would be in certain areas of towns that weren't necessarily higher income, they would be run-down, like they were neglected and left behind."They also saw the incredible community laundromats provide. A gathering place for people of all ages who would often spend hours each week together. A seed was born.They Transform a Laundromat AND a CommunityAfter their honeymoon, the couple settled in Charleston, South Carolina. They wanted to get involved in the community somehow and that's when Jon became "obsessed" with laundromats.He found one for sale in a largely abandoned area of Charleston. The old laundromat had a "bustling business" but had fallen into disrepair with broken machines and a general air of neglect. However, instead of seeing a dilapidated building, the couple saw potential.As veteran renovators of previous projects, including a bed and breakfast, they weren't afraid to get dirty. "Our thought is, if we can bring in [Erin's] design skills, bring some technology, fix some things, and renovate, it will not only be something amazing for the community, but maybe it'll be a good business too," Jon said. "So that was our hope."So, they put it all on the line and took the leap. They spent six months getting to know the business and figuring out a renovation plan. On New Year's Day, they closed for renovations.It took three months, but as of the end of March, the renovation is complete. And it is...WOW. The Amazing Transformation: From Ordinary to ExtraordinaryIn a video that has gone viral with over 12M views, the Carpenters give a 30-second glimpse into the amazing transformation from start to finish.The couple's vision went far beyond mere laundry facilities. They transformed the laundromat into a multifunctional space, carefully considering the needs and interests of the community and their customers. And while the laundromat is indeed stunning, it's about so much more than just clean clothes.Because the couple didn't just create a beautiful space, they created a beautiful sense of community as well. "There's so many hours spent there, so it felt really important to make the space comfortable, clean, and safe," said Erin. "There is the functional aspect of needing to do laundry, but also like families are spending time there—moms are tired and they're waiting and you want to give them a comfy couch to sit on instead of a broken bench. We want to give kids something to do, somewhere to play."Jon and Erin took their venture beyond a simple business operation and turned it into a hub that fosters connection, support, and a sense of belonging among the locals. And their customers, and netizens, are loving it.More than 6K people have commented on the video, writing:"Wonderful! I can’t explain to people how laundromats become so important to communities.""And safe place for community to take place that has reliable washers, tv, and places to sit!!! Not just a place to leave laundry and go!""Laundromats are so vital to communities! No one realizes how important they are until they use one themselves." Giving Back to the CommunityIn addition to providing a much-needed service in their community, the Carpenters also partnered with a local charity, the Lowcountry Blessing Box Project, and provide free laundry days. The couple said they have already received enough requests and donations to start hosting multiple free laundry days a month at Reynolds Laundromat.What started as a neglected laundromat has been transformed into an incredible community hub that serves as a shining example of the positive impact that small-scale initiatives can have on a community."Let's really harness that and really think community-forward specifically and see where that can take us," Erin said. "Because if anything, [the laundromat] has brought to our attention that people want that. People are craving that community and we want to give it to them."