Limitless

Don’t let the world dictate who you are or who you are going to be.

Poverty, illiteracy, racism, and crime plague our neighborhoods, community, and nation. Regardless of your circumstances it is possible to do whatever you desire. Many people may say this, but I actually mean it. I believe we are limitless; unbound by our social status, ethnicity, ancestors, region or creed. We can overcome our misfortunes and achieve greatness. Others have agreed with me and have established programs and organizations to assist individuals in this effort. One idea that is sweeping the nation is Promise Neighborhoods.

Promise Neighborhoods are a new initiative to break the cycle of generational poverty by improving the educational outcomes and overall life prospects of low-income children and their families. The idea of a promise neighborhood is bringing together parents, children and the community to work together towards a common goal. In Harlem, New York these Promise Neighborhoods were established in some of the most underprivileged areas looking to change the future of its youth and its community. Their belief is that by changing the educational approach they can dictate their future regardless of economic status. This is an excellent example of individuals not settling, but changing their circumstances. This community is taking what they were given and making it into something greater; through structure, education, and commitment. Many political officials including our president have noted the success of this initiative. The Obama Administration has followed through on campaign promises to alleviate poverty with a national commitment to this comprehensive based approach to support children from birth through college through family and community. D.C. has joined this effort with the DC Promise Neighborhood Initiative (DCPNI) in the Parkside/Kenilworth neighborhood of Ward 7.

This weekend I witnessed this same sense of community education approach at Byte Back. Byte Back as we have previously noted, is a nonprofit group that works with local organizations to provide computer access and career ladder computer training to underemployed and unemployed adults. This past Saturday Byte Back held their fifth annual Community Computer Day. As a volunteer at this event I had the opportunity to work with many of the individuals being served by this organization. When talking with them they spoke of how important this computer program was and how it has impacted their careers, family and future. The majority of Byte Back’s staff is volunteers, working for a cause greater than them and serving the local community.

Making a difference is simply taking a chance and being advantageous of the opportunities presented to you. Instead of trying to attribute your situation to someone or certain events, focus on finding a solution and finding a way to change your circumstances. Many times we feel that we can only do things within our capacity, within our limits. But who sets these limits? Does society place these limits on us? Are we forever bound by these limits?

Our destiny is not set in stone and we do have the power to impact our lives and dictate our future, all we need is the presence of mine to do so. If you are interested in learning more about DCPNI check out their website

--Krystal