I am Women’s Bean Project: Crystal

Transcribed from Crystal’s graduation speech:

While my time here has come to an end and as I sit here today, I look back to when I first walked in. I had one clear goal in mind which was I wanted to complete the program. I wanted to do something for myself. I did have some challenges while here, but I overcame them with the support from staff and from my coworkers.

When I first came to the Bean, I never thought this program would shape me both professionally and personally. I gained more confidence in myself, and I learned how to better communicate and lead. And I’m grateful to have been a part of such a supportive team. Being here has shown me that I can be a positive role model not only for my children, but for my peers as well.

We have shared challenges, laughter, and growth, which I’m proud of all of you for being here as long as you all have. As I move forward with this next chapter, I’m excited to take the skills that I learned here into my new role at the Volunteers of America. Thank you to everyone for being supportive or just being my friend. I will definitely look back at my time here and be grateful for everything that I’ve learned, and I’ll miss everyone.