YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

I used to be afraid to speak up in front of a group, and now I have experience leading an entire coalition!

I used to think that in order to be a leader you must stand on your own authority, be loud and true. Through Public Allies, I learned that working within a team is just as effective, if not MORE, when trying to implement change.

I used to be terrified of being bold in who I am, and now I know to courageously be me;
I used to think I needed to fit into a certain “type” of optimal human, and now I truly know my particular strengths and weaknesses can contribute in their own unique way;
I used to make so many generalizations and stereotypes, and now I remember from my Ally experience that we really are each special and unique and can connect to anyone on a human level.

I used to be uncomfortable and scared of interacting with people different from me. Now I welcome and am comfortable with differences, because I know having diverse perspectives makes a community and any collective action stronger.

I used to think that I my voice was only important if I went to college, got advanced degrees, climbed the ranks of academia, and wrote a book after 20 years of a career. I now know that I create my own opportunities for myself and my community.

I used to think that I could put the world on my shoulder, but now I know the world is a lot lighter when others help.

I used to be afraid of where life will take me and skeptical of “second chances,” but now I’m living that reality and excited to see what life has in store for me next!

I used to think that my service leadership generated the most impact when it prioritized the needs of others, but now I know that it can have just as much impact when I prioritize my own needs, as well.