Hello world, my name is Tevin Clark. I was born in the 9th Ward of New Orleans, one of the most violent and impoverished neighborhoods in the city. I am the second youngest of seven children. My childhood is filled with memories of sleeping in cars, begging for money at gas pumps, stealing peanut butter from family members to survive, all while trying to make it on time to school. At the age of six, I was separated from my family and sent to live in group homes and with foster families. Months after Katrina hit, I didn’t know if anyone in my family had survived. I was only in the 7th grade. Obviously, I was an angry child with little understanding of why I didn’t have my family for support.  For years, my foster parents, real parents, aunts and teachers told me that I would never amount to anything, and I would end up like the rest of the kids I grew up with, either dead or in jail.

Despite my family’s hurtful disparaging words, I have proven to be an extremely hard worker. Thanks to Liberty’s Kitchen, a job training program for underprivileged youth, I learned how to master the craft of cooking and have been working for legendary chefs in New Orleans like Susan Spicer and John Besh for almost six years.  Liberty’s also taught me the importance of basic professional skills like being on time and working as a team member.  This year, I even won the Youth Achievement Award and was asked to be on a local TV news and a local radio station to represent Liberty’s Kitchen.

Six years later, with arms covered in burns and scars, I am finally ready to return to school to follow my dream of becoming an art teacher. I know I will be able to effectuate change for young children in New Orleans who have come from similar backgrounds as me. I will be attending Delgado Community College while also attending Youth Creative Agency for graphic design. With a busy day from 8 am to 6 pm this summer, I do not have time to waste in the kitchen any longer.

Now, I live with my aunt and have managed to save about two thousand dollars. All of the money that you donate will go to paying for my college classes, computer, and books. I am drug and alcohol free, and do not have any children. Any donation to my college fund will be extremely appreciated. I promise to make you all proud!