We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Serena Morris. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Serena below.
Serena , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
For my me my organization is my purpose. As a school teacher, I have seen too many students go without, come to school unprepared, and feeling left out because of it. I created my organzation to help students feel included and not worry about not how they’re going to pay for it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I have been in education for over 20 years and a teacher for 13. I have worked with students from preschool to college. I never wanted to be a teacher but this profession found me because I have always loved working and being around children. My purpose as a teacher is to help students find their path even if it’s just to graduate highschool and figure the rest out later.
I created the Givin’ Tree clothing closet with the goal in mind to expand and offer additional services that would help students transition from highschool into the real world. Everyone is so focused on graduation that the part that comes after is left for them to figure out on their own. The Givin’ Tree Center would be a place free and open to the public that would allow us to connect with community resources for families with students still trying to figure out the next step. We would offer resume writing, partener with college/trade schools, create job fairs and network with the community to help students gain employment skills and internships as well as provide clothing for school or work. The Givin’ Tree Center would have branches of service that would offer a variety of support for young adults trying to transition after high school and their families so they can become functioning members of society instead of feeling lost and unsure.
As a teacher, I have always tried to support my students and encourage them to find a path or help them get a plan in place because the schools are only focused on graduation and those students going to college. The students that don’t know their next step are always left to figure it out alone. But with the support of the Givin’ Tree Center we would be able to extend branches of service and support to them and their families.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I have learned that what students and young adults need more is patience, understanding, and someone to listen to them. Most just want someone they can trust, a friend, and want to feel seen and included.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
We are always looking for other nonprofits, businesses, and community members to connect with. Our goal is to expand and open a location but we can’t do that without additional financial support as well as volunteers to help us set up the clothing closet. We accept clothing donations year round so are always in need of racks, hangers, and garment bags.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Princess4aNight
- Facebook: Princess4aNight
Image Credits
CT9 Designs 1044 Photography, LLC
