Tell our readers a little bit about your backstory.
Keisha: My backstory is traumatic. I was a young lady fighting my way through the system from 12 to 18 years old. Then I had children, experienced homelessness, and experienced domestic violence. It was hard, but I stayed strong.
What were your first impressions of COTS?
Keisha: They were helpful! They introduced us to a coach, and we met with housing coordinators. It was challenging as we had a 14-day separation from the rest of the shelter population because of COVID restrictions. I felt alone because we were not with other people, but I knew my goal and I remembered that sometimes it is okay to be alone. We had phones, and they also provided wi-fi for our computers, so we could entertain ourselves.
What were the most valuable resources you’ve received?
Keisha: Coaching. I had someone to talk to when I was going through things like the domestic violence issue and my pregnancy, as I was also pregnant at the time, and I was going through mixed emotions about my pregnancy. They
gave me a lot of support and love. It felt like family.
Talk about your vision behind your Art of Family Photo Shoot.
Keisha: This was our first photo shoot and the pictures were beautiful! They brought out the vision of where I want us to be. One day, I hope to be the CEO of my own company and have my children work with me. I would love for them to be brought up to be businessmen. Our photo shoot was all about business. I want this to be a motivation for my kids to see that this is what you want to grow into. Don’t go in the direction that I did based upon how I was brought up. I want keep them away
from that.
What are some of your goals for the future?
Keisha: To finish school in the coming year and continue to grow with stepping up and allowing myself to be seen. I’ve always been the type of person to hide my talent but I want to continue to be inspired to become great. I am a diamond in the rough. I have been through a lot and I have a testimony. I am a great person, with a great personality and a great soul. I love customer service and am talented and would love to have the opportunity to share what I have with the world.
Do you have any advice for other people who need help?
Keisha: Do not be afraid to seek help. Get out of your toxic situations and seek help. It is never too late. There are programs that can help AND teach. Not only are they helping, but they are also teaching you to become stable, and they have lots of resources. .
Do you have anything else that you would like to add?
Keisha: COTS is a great help to families in the community! When people give to COTS, they help families.
