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Life's journey often takes unexpected and challenging turns, shaping us in ways we could never foresee. For some, the path is filled with hurdles that demand resilience, determination, and a relentless hope for something better. This is the story of Jazmine's transformation - from a childhood marked by instability and heartbreak to a life of purpose, growth, and inspiration. Through her struggles with addiction, motherhood, and navigating a world that often felt stacked against her, she found strength and a way forward, culminating in a life-changing opportunity with Tech-Moms. Her story is a powerful testament to the human spirit and a reminder that, with support and perseverance, even the most difficult circumstances can lead to extraordinary triumphs.
I didn’t have the typical journey most people imagine in life. My story began in a rough and challenging environment, one marked by addiction and absence. My father, a quadriplegic, battled addiction. As a child, I often found myself in the heartbreaking role of caregiver, when what I truly needed was to be cared for. My mother, lost in her own struggles, was often absent. My brother and I found stability with our grandparents, who became our safe haven and instilled in us the core values that would later guide me through life: family first, hard work, loyalty, compassion, and integrity. Yet, even with their love, the weight of my circumstances shaped my early years into a painful and lonely journey.
I didn’t dream of finishing school or building a future. Instead, I found myself lost, trying to navigate a world that seemed determined to hold me back. As a teenager, I had run-ins with the law and fell into my own battle with addiction—a devastating reality I had once despised in my own parents. Addiction took over my life, leading me into high-risk situations and leaving me desperate for a sense of belonging. I was spiraling, unsure of how to turn things around. At just 19, I became a mother. My first daughter was born, and in the midst of a controlling and abusive situation that consumed me, she became the light that started to guide me. She gave me a reason to fight for a better life.
Over the years, I became a mother to six beautiful children. Eventually, I found the courage to leave that toxic situation and began the daunting journey of being a single parent. Later, I met an incredible man who loves and supports me wholeheartedly. He sees the best in me and encourages me to pursue my dreams. Although his incarceration still leaves me as the sole provider for our family, his unwavering belief in me has been my anchor. Even from a distance, he is my biggest cheerleader, urging me to pave my way and find financial stability. Without his encouragement, I might never have taken the leaps I have.
Being a stay-at-home mom was fulfilling, but I knew I had to find a way to provide for my children independently. Starting a cleaning business was my first step. It thrived for three years, but the unpredictable income of a small business eventually forced me to close it down. It was heartbreaking—I felt like I had failed my family. Determined to keep going, I jumped from job to job, searching for stability and a career path that could truly support us. I finally landed a role as an admin and worked my way up to account executive at a utility billing company. Still, I knew I wanted more for my family and myself. That’s when I found Tech-Moms. Through my daughter’s mentor program, Friends of the Children, I learned about this incredible opportunity and reached out immediately.
Tech-Moms changed everything. It opened doors I didn’t even know existed, introducing me to coding and careers I had never heard of. For the first time, I felt hopeful and capable of building a future—not just for me, but for my children.
Today, my children and family are what keep me grounded. They are my reason to maintain my sobriety, to keep pushing myself, and to strive for a brighter future. My goal is to become a data analyst, and I now have the tools, the knowledge, and the confidence to make that happen. Tech-Moms has given me more than just skills—it has given me purpose, a community, and the resilience to overcome setbacks and keep going.
If you’ve ever wondered how to truly make a difference in someone’s life—one that ripples through their family and beyond—Tech-Moms is the answer. Your generosity creates opportunities for people like me to break free from cycles of adversity and rewrite their stories. Without donors, countless individuals would never have access to these life-changing resources. You have the power to help someone step into a brighter, more promising future. This journey has been one of resilience, growth, and discovery. I’m sharing my story to remind others that no matter how far down the wrong path you’ve gone, it’s never too late to turn around. To those who support programs like Tech-Moms: thank you for believing in us and for giving hope to those who need it most.
This month of giving, your impact can go even further! Thanks to the generosity of the Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Foundation, every donation to Tech-Moms will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $30,000. That’s just $30 from 1,000 people to unlock this incredible gift. Your support empowers women to overcome obstacles, gain valuable skills, and build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
Don’t miss this opportunity to double your impact—make your gift today!
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