Her childhood didn’t hold her back from ensuring a positive future for herself and her son.
Chandra endured a very difficult childhood of neglect and abuse and spent most of her formative years in the foster care system. At the age of twenty, she had her son Dominic but she knew that her relationship with Dominic’s father was unhealthy, so she packed three bags and went to live with her best friend. After struggling for two years, Chandra found Warren Village in Denver, which provided her with resources and helped her realize that she had the skills to go back to school. “It was then that I realized that I’m not the only one with my issues and I shouldn’t be ashamed of my issues,” she said. Chandra enrolled at the Community College of Denver (CCD) and was encouraged by a friend to apply for the Hide in Plain Sight scholarship.
“When I interviewed for the scholarship, I felt so welcome and it was such a different experience because the people I met with, got to hear the actual me!” said Chandra. “The scholarship helped me develop a sense of purpose and clarity with what I want to do in life.” Chandra used her scholarship money to purchase a much-needed computer and printer and other necessary school supplies.
Chandra is currently getting her associates degree in medical assisting and hopes to work in a low income pediatric clinic upon completion of her degree. Her focus right now is on school work and on helping Dominic do well in school so that he has a bright future. “As someone who comes from a background of neglect and abuse, I know that having confidence in yourself means you can go very far. There are going to be tough times and you need to push through them and if not you will drown in your worry and stress and that’s not good for anybody. There are good people and resources out there!”
