ACHIEVEability

ACHIEVEability: A Place for an Idealist

2010-05-17T12:24:00.021-04:00

When I joined the ACHIEVEability staff in June of 2009 I was seeking an opportunity to engage directly with members of a community facing the challenges of economic and social distress. The warnings of friends and family were numerous but unvaried. Universally there was a concern that working in social services or with under-resourced communities provides for its champions more embittering heartache than actual satisfaction or triumph. So many once determined and idealistic young people grow tired and indifferent after a seeming eternity in the fruitless endeavor of service to their communities. The steadfast refusal to sink into that very cynicism, which has become so the industry standard, is perhaps what is so unique and fundamentally wonderful about ACHIEVEability.

From my first day on the job, I have been struck by the commitment of all members of this community to the success of the program and its participants. The chance to work on issues with our participants ranging from the mundane to the imperative has truly been a privilege, not because of the nature of the work, but because of the passion I see in our participants everyday. To hear a participant recount the turmoil of balancing her work life with her studies while in the same breath citing the love of her child as her constant source of strength is enough to draw a tear from the most hardened of misanthropes. And still I feel that participants of the ACHIEVEability program may never truly know the way in which they touch our staff. The symbiosis of participant inspiring coach and coach motivating participant is that irreplicable facet which elevates the ACHIEVEability program.

I have been fascinated by the dynamic of the ACHIEVEability community, both in staff and participants. There is certainly wisdom to be found in the seasoned veterans of the staff and the program which serves to ground the naivety of younger staff members and participants. It is, however, the mutual interaction between the warranted pragmatism of the experienced and the youthful altruism of those new to the community which drives the mission of ACHIEVEability. This program would not be what it is without the new participants’ mixed excitement and trepidation about the daunting road ahead. And this program would not be what it is without the reassurance of the soon to be graduate for those earlier in their journeys. I remain in awe of the accomplishments of all the participants in this program and I am continuously grateful to have been welcomed into this community.

Tim Shepherd – Self-Sufficiency Coach

About the Author

Tim Shepherd has served as Self-Sufficiency Coach with ACHIEVEability since June of 2009. Tim, along with fellow coach Brian Hoskins, is currently developing a summer youth initiative. ACHIEVEability will miss Tim as he starts a new chapter of his life at NYU Law School this fall.

People In My Corner

2010-05-10T05:57:00.001-04:00

I have been a client of ACHIEVEability for a year and a half, and I am very pleased with all the assistance that they offer their clients. Before I came to the program I was living in an overcrowded home with my siblings and nieces due to the passing of our mother. I am the oldest of six children, so a lot of responsibility was on my shoulders. I was already attending college before I became a client of ACHIEVEability, but it was difficult to remain focused because of my living situation. I didn’t have time to deal with losing my mother because I had so many things going on around me. A friend of mine suggested that I should apply for the program. I was skeptical at first, but I felt like I didn’t have anything to lose and everything to gain to provide a stable environment for my son and brother. I filled out the application and four months later I was called for an interview. The interview process was kind of frustrating because I was anxious to move, but I prayed for patience, and in November of 2008 I moved into my apartment.

As a single mother, raising my teenage brother, working full-time, and attending college can be very overwhelming at times; especially without a solid support system. ACHIEVEability has provided more than a stable home for my family. The program offers counseling, workshops, homeowner’s assistance, activities for kids and tutoring. The counseling services have helped me overcome some personal and family issues that I was having in my life. I also had a terrific tutor who was willing to come to my home and help me with my classes. I have people in my corner who care about my future and that pushes me to be more motivated. When obstacles come my way; my coach is a phone call away and is willing to help me. It makes my transition to becoming self-sufficient much easier. With the help of ACHIEVEability I see a promising future, and my family is very grateful for the help we receive!

About the Author

Markeeta Hackney is a student of Community College of Philadelphia with a current GPA of 3.15. She is scheduled to graduate with a business degree in the summer of 2010 and plans to continue school to get her bachelor's degree in business. She lives at ACHIEVEability with her 8 year old son, Hyneef, and her 18 year old brother, Roger. She has been a participant since 2008.

ACHIEVE your dreams and PLAY

2010-05-03T11:03:00.000-04:00

One of the things we like to do at ACHIEVEability is engage our community children while exposing them to different experiences. One of our valued supporters came out to teach a yoga class and wrote about it on her blog, Peace Love Art Yoga.

The Ability to Achieve

2010-04-21T16:00:00.001-04:00

May 8th, 2010 will mark my fifth anniversary as being a client of ACHIEVEability. I am one of the few male clients in this wonderful program. As a man and as a single parent, it was hard for me ask for help at first because I had this notion that my “independence” defined my manhood. While I believe it to be true that a man takes care of his family and himself, a man also must be able to recognize when he needs some assistance. ACHIEVEability has provided me with that assistance. From the great self sufficiency coaches and awesome tutors to the workshops and programs offered to the group outings and the reward system, ACHIEVEability has provided my children and me with an outstanding foundation to become successful and productive members of society. That’s not to say that there hasn’t been any challenges or obstacles because there have been many. The difference is having a great support system to help you through these trying times and that’s what this program has done. An example of this program’s great support occurred during my first year enrolled in the program. My son’s brother was viciously murdered and he was engulfed with grief and anger. ACHIEVEability had grief counselors come in and assist with getting my son back on track. With the assistance of this program and through my son’s personal, internal strength, he has graduated from high school and is now enrolled in an 18 month Associates degree program for computer technology. This situation could have easily deteriorated into continued violence but because of the help offered by this program, we prevented it. Another example is my educational progress. When I enrolled in CCP I was required to take remedial math because I needed to strengthen my skills in that area. Because of the great tutoring and support offered by ACHIEVEability, I went from remedial math to Economic 112(Statistics 1). In fact, I will be graduating from CCP on May 8th, 2010 with an AA degree in Liberal Arts (with a strong business foundation) and I will be continuing my pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Chestnut Hill College.

The beautiful irony of ACHIEVEability’s mantra of self-sufficiency is that one must have a great support staff in order to be self-sufficient. The greatest lessons I’ve learned from this program are to never be afraid or ashamed to accept help and to be smart enough to know what I don’t know.

I would like to give a special, heart-felt thank you to:

Brian Hoskins- A great Life Skills coach but a MUCH better person. I consider you one of my best friends.

Jamilla HARRIS-Morrison- A top flight motivator and one of the most intelligent persons I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet.

Heather Greaves- Tutor of the Gods.

About the Author

Gerald H. Parnell, Jr. is a single father of three children. He came to ACHIEVEability in 2005 and will graduate from Community College of Philadelphia this May with an AA in Liberal Arts. He plans to pursue a bachelors degree in finance at Chestnut Hill College this fall. Gerald currently works for Ricoh Copiers, and has his own disk jockey business.

On the Road to Success

2010-04-06T13:54:00.000-04:00

As a single parent of two and a sophmore in college, I came into Achieveability in March 2007 with high hopes. Coming from a single parent home, I had had my fair share of ups and downs. Determined to make a better life for my self as well as my children, I applied for the program two years earlier (June 2005), and I almost cried when I finally got the phone call saying, "we have a three bedroom house for you and your children."

The first year with Achieveability was rough; I was trying to make my rent while maintaining my GPA in school, raising the kids and making it to work every weekend. I was far away from my family (I had previously lived outside of Philadelphia), far away from my friends and to top it all I had lost someone very important to me, my best friend's grandmother who had a hand in raising me.To deal with all of this and maintain my sanity was hard to say the least, but with the support of my life coach I was able to transition somewhat smoothely.

As a senior, things for me have begun to turn around; Im graduating in May, my personal life is coming together and most importantly I am on the road to success. I came here with high hopes, and they matched my goals and ambitions with their own goals and ambitions they had in mind for me, and they have continuously motivated me to stay on the right track and given me the support I needed to move forward. In addition to the life coaches, they have a wonderful staff that is always polite and respectful and ready to help if you need them. They offer workshops, counseling and anything else you can think of to assist you with what you need to achieve your goals.

With all the support they give, Achieveability makes it impossible to fail, and I can not express my appreciation enough for Achieveability!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

April Broaddus is a graduating client of Achieveability, and is also an Intern with Achieveability's Development department. A client since March 2007, Ms. Broaddus will be recieving her Bachelors in Communication from Rosemont College in May of 2010.

Tutoring: More than a rewarding experience

2010-03-04T11:30:00.000-05:00

I’ve always wanted to volunteer my time to an organization that I was passionate about, but between working full time while going through college there never seemed to be extra time in the week. Six months ago, I found myself in a unique situation where I was without a job, and looking for a new direction in my life. I thought it was the perfect time to start reaching out to worthwhile organizations in need of volunteers. It was then that I found ACHIEVEability, and started volunteering as a tutor. Having a master’s degree in business administration, I was able to lend skills in accounting, and economics to participants in ACHIEVEability’s self-sufficiency program.

To say that my experience has been rewarding is an understatement. I am inspired by these students everyday that I spend with them. While I understand the perseverance that it takes to put yourself through school, I have never had the simultaneous responsibility of being a parent. I hear of their strife as they tell stories of trips taken to the principal’s office, taking ill kids to doctor’s appointments, and helping them with homework. It isn’t until after bedtime rituals are complete that they can finally start their own homework. Yet despite these obstacles, I see such tenderness and patience with their children.

The effort that my students put into their studies motivates me to be a better tutor. They keep me sharp, and on my toes! We keep each other accountable. When I hear that they’ve gotten an A on a test, or achieved their goal for the class, I know that all of the hard work was worth it. I’m thankful that I have this opportunity to meet new people, and contribute their life’s journey. Surely they have contributed to mine.

Heather Greaves

About the Author

Heather Greaves has been a tutor with ACHIEVEability for four months. Additionally, she assists our development department, as well as works part time at the front desk.

When one woman dared to look inside herself

2010-02-22T08:42:00.002-05:00

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

2010-02-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

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

2010-02-08T06:44:00.001-05:00

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

2010-02-01T06:44:00.000-05:00

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.

Welcome Bloggers and Readers

2009-12-05T09:12:00.001-05:00

At ACHIEVEability, we are trying to create a direct link between our volunteers, donors, staff and our clients. What better way than to blog? We invite you to follow our blog, get updates, and post comments starting in January 2010. Stay Tuned!