We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tamara Strickland. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tamara below.
Hi Tamara, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.
I overcame blockages by staying focused on my goals and the reason for the purpose.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am Tamara Strickland, the CEO of I Live 2 Give Charity ( IL2G ). IL2G is a nonprofit kid’s charity. Our mission is to alleviate the suffering of the less privileged kids through philanthropy.
I was drawn into philanthropy, because I experienced what it is like to be a child without the proper support. I suffered failure due to no guidance from those around me. I understand what it’s like to be a child in a low income community without the resources needed to succeed.
What makes I Live 2 Give Charity special is that it is designed to aid all kids regardless of background. We focus on instilling in children the principles needed for a successful future. Most importantly, the programs that we are incorporating into our curriculum will provide the opportunity for students to develop skills that will enable them to grow.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the qualities I will say I have is trusting God’s will, determination, and commitment.
First, trusting God’s will for my life. Knowing that we all have a purpose here in this life is what we all have to accept. I believe once we accept this, then we will understand our purpose.
Next, you have to be determined. You can’t allow small obstacles to detour you from your vision. You must know that it takes persistency to achieve anything in life. Being determined is discipline. I say this, because many things can, and will distract you, but you must remain determined to accomplish your goals.
Lastly, being committed to your vision/goal. Where there is commitment, there is also growth. Commitment and determination goes hand to hand, ( allow me to throw that out ). If I’m determined, I will achieve. If I stay committed, I will grow. Just think about commitment, when you dedicate yourself to something or someone. You began to grow!
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Matthew 19:26 quotes, With God all things are possible. I truly believe in this scripture. We all have the power and strength to overcome anything, because our God.
Once you make up in your mind that you are tired of things, and you want more out of life. That’s when you will develop the skills, qualities, and knowledge necessary for challenges. You won’t allow yourself to settle because you know what it’s like to have nothing.
Lastly, I would like to thank my children, Makayla, Monterion, Sean Jr, Xy’rie and Xaidyn for all loving me and trusting me through these difficult moments. My kids were my biggest motivation. They kept me going by the small pats on my back for my efforts. They would tell me how great of a mom I was, because they seen the side others didn’t see.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.IL2G.org
