Help Me Start Fresh & Keep Pursuing My Dreams — A Safe Place to Land

My Story

Hi, my name is JJ, and I’m stepping into a new chapter of my life — one filled with healing, independence, and hope. It’s a big transition, and while I’m working hard every day, I’m also learning to do something I’ve never done before: ask for help.

I’m reaching out to my community and the world with deep humility and faith. I’m planning to move into a place of my own soon, and I could use some financial support to build a soft, safe landing — a cushion to help me stabilize and start fresh.

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Why I’m Asking for Help

I’ve been carrying a lot for a long time. I’m a survivor of child abuse, domestic violence, and housing instability. Even so, by the grace of God and through a lot of perseverance, I’ve still managed to:

• Earn my degree in Child Studies

• Work as a caregiver and preschool teacher

• Set records as a track athlete

• Dream big about becoming a professional runner and Olympian

• Love deeply, serve others, and keep showing up even when life was falling apart

The truth is, I’ve never really had a financial safety net — not because I’m irresponsible, but because I’ve been in survival mode for most of my life. I’ve made it this far through grit, prayer, and purpose, but now I need to build something sustainable. That starts with creating a stable home, and having enough breathing room to heal, work, and continue pursuing my dreams.

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What Donations Will Go Toward

• First month’s rent + security deposit

• Basic living expenses (groceries, gas, bills)

• Emergency cushion while I transition into work/housing stability

• Support for continued running/training goals — even just having shoes, gear, and space to move matters more than I can say

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To Those Who Understand

I know a lot of people in this world are struggling. I’m not asking from entitlement — I’m asking from faith. I believe that sometimes, God moves through the kindness of others. If you feel moved to support this next chapter in any way, even $5 means so much to me. Sharing this also helps more than you know.

Thank you for hearing my story. Thank you for being a part of my journey. And thank you for believing that someone who’s fought this hard deserves to have a safe place to land and space to dream again.

With love and gratitude,

JJ