When one woman dared to look inside herself

I now live within my heart not outside of it. 


I have always been afraid to open that door and to look at myself.  I was not sure if there was anything inside of me to admire. Now I am no longer afraid and have the courage to open my heart and look inside of myself.  Through the ACHIEVEabilily self-sufficiency program I can understand the meaning of life and importance of having goals. 


Thanks Achieveabililty for having such a great mission.


Anna Hargrove






About the Author


Anna Hargrove is a current ACHIEVEability client who also works in our community outreach office as a community organizer.  

7th Annual Gala: Much more than a party

We are now one month out from our 7th Annual Gala, Marrakech:  A Special Night to Benefit ACHIEVEability.  I'm sure everyone has heard of it by now, it's a Moroccan themed night with various forms of live entertainment, cool decor, and an after hours bar we're calling the Kasbah Lounge.  I'm having so much fun planning it, but what really has gotten me in the planning of this night is the generosity of everyone involved.  It's amazing what can be accomplished when people of all walks of life come together with a common goal to help a cause they believe in.  I have gotten letter after letter, donation after donation, volunteer after volunteer, come out to help us make this night succeed by putting each of their unique talents to work.  From celebrity chefs donating amazing auction items, to local hair salons donating their services to help our graduating clients feel special for the night.  It is truly a blessing to see so many people come together at once, and I am humbled by the experience. 

Sue Jacquette

About the author
Sue Jacquette is the Manager of Special Events for ACHIEVEability.  She started out as a volunteer in 2008, came on as Gala Co-Chair in 2009, then joined the organization to run all of the events throughout the year, including annual galas, golf outings, holiday parties, client appreciation events, and many more.  Feel free to contact her with any event related questions at 215-748-8830.

Volunteering at ACHIEVEability

First of all, I was well acquainted with ACHIEVEability's important mission through interactions with its prior Executive Director on an Advisory Board, hearing ACHIEVEability clients and staff speak about their experiences at Vanguard, and through the sponsorship of ACHIEVEability by Vanguard's own Tim Thornton (ACHIEVEability Board Member). Having grown up in West Philadelphia myself, I was gratified to know that an organization does such great work to break the cycle of poverty and encourage the pursuit of education and self-sufficiency by its clients. However, I had never spent a United Way Day of Caring or MLK Day of Service with ACHIEVEability, until now. 


I partially chose to volunteer at ACHIEVEability this time because of my involvement with Vanguard's University of Pennsylvania College Champion Team. I learned that some Penn students might be volunteering, and this event would allow me to both meet the students while also giving back to my old community.  While I thought I would be moving PCs and possibly painting an ACHIEVEability headquarters room, I learned when I arrived that only painting was required that day.  Though not my favorite (or most effective) thing to do in my spare time, I gave it my best effort!  The staff was very supportive, and I think the work that the students, other volunteers and I did in a short period of time did make a good difference in the appearance of the office.  At the same time, my wife, Karen, took pictures at the headquarters, and travelled with Vanguard's project coordinators to take pictures of the other volunteers.  When we were both done, we travelled to one of the houses that was still being painted to lend a hand. Walking down the street and up the steps brought back memories of my childhood in West Philly.  The inside of the house was already looking good with the fresh coat of paint that was applied by numerous volunteers, and it gave us both a good feeling to know that we were contributing to making a house a beautiful home for someone.  One thing that I like about these events is that you get a chance to meet other Vanguard crew, other volunteers, and staff from the organization where you are volunteering. 


I enjoyed speaking with Achieveability's impressive Executive Director Marcus Allen briefly, and was convinced that ACHIEVEability will continue to grow and do great things for the city and its residents.




About the Author:
Dean Henry is a Vanguard employee and ACHIEVEabilityvolunteer.  After donating his time on Martin Luther King Day of Service to help paint some ACHIEVEability properties he shared these thoughts with us.

A Letter of Inspiration

Dear Mommy,

Hopefully the smile on my face displays every positive thought that my heart and mind wants to tell you. I know that you have been through a lot in your life. I have walked by your side through most of your struggles. I have witnessed your years of pain, embarrassment, and moments of helplessness. I know that at times my brother and I were your only source of motivation. However, despite the obstacles that you encountered, you always continued to persevere, and with the help of ACHIEVEability, you changed your life and mine.

I have had great pride in watching you accomplish your goals. You became a home-owner and a landlord within months of graduating from ACHIEVEability. You earned your master’s degree, and most importantly you have inspired me.

I respect that you utilized the resources provided and made the decision to improve our situation. Your pride has never prevented you from accepting a helping hand, but you always stressed the importance of giving back to show appreciation.

Therefore, it is with great pride that I give back to ACHIEVEability in your name.

Love,

Naeemah

 
About the author
Naeemah Solice-Nelson is the daughter of an ACHIEVEability client, Diane Solice-Purnell. While Naeemah was just a child when her family was in the program, after watching her mother's focus on education, she too graduated from college and she now works as Business Coordinator for the Resources for Human Development Department of Philadelphia.