Finding Community
July 26, 2024
“I’ve always wanted to know how to get out of poverty, or how I could help someone get out of poverty if I ever get out of poverty,” she explained.
It’s why she serves on her church’s Benevolence Team and has plans to pursue a degree in biblical theology to become a church counselor.
It’s also why signing up for the workshop seemed like a natural fit.
Her initial expectations were modest, thinking it would be a class with lots of homework. Instead, the 10-week experience delivered a comforting environment, a supportive network and lasting connections.
“I got to meet a lot of people I probably would not have met before. We’re supposed to be having coffee every month now,” she said, excited about maintaining these friendships now that the workshop has ended.
It’s difficult when your income goes entirely to rent and bills, Jasmine explains. Yet, kitchen table-style discussions about topics like language choices and budgeting were memorable to her. Above all, she won’t forget how this experience made her feel.
“One of the speakers was so attentive and caring. I’ll always remember that about her.”
Born and raised in Lincoln, Jasmine hasn’t left Nebraska before—but that may change soon. With her eye on a school in Colorado and a determination to help others, she may be trading cornfields for mountain views.
Until then, this dog owner, music lover and gardener-in-training plans to remain active in her church’s gospel community, volunteering her time, taking free online courses, and helping others learn about Getting Ahead.
“I really liked it, and I like telling people about it.”
Part of the Food Bank of Lincoln’s Bridges Out of Poverty initiative, Getting Ahead In A Just-Gettin’-By World is a kitchen table-style learning experience for neighbors who are living in or near poverty. Attendees explore how poverty affects their lives through the lens of socioeconomic class and co-investigate with others to plan their future stories and build a life of opportunity. Learn more here.
