Q: What were your first thoughts on Strings for Hope?
A: Honestly, it took me a minute to consider working for Strings for Hope. I felt a lot of shame from my past and the route of sex trafficking I had taken. I didn’t feel like I belonged here, so I had to change my perspective and realized by working with Strings for Hope, I am giving back to women.
Q: How has Strings for Hope helped you while in the program?
A: Strings for hope gave me discipline. I was able to save up for a car. I made money, and I fell in love with the company and would rather be making bracelets every day than work at the job that I was at.
Q: How do you think Strings for Hope will help you once you transition out?
A: This is my career, not a job. I don’t plan on leaving Strings for Hope at all. I am just excited to grow with the company and see where it takes me and what doors it will open for me.
Q: What sort of impact has Strings for Hope had on you?
A: I never thought I would have a 9-5 working in an office with a desk. I love the staff, it's mind blowing. It has opened a lot of doors for me and gave me self- worth.
Q: Do you enjoy working for us full time?
A: Yeah, I love working full time! It's different working somewhere when you enjoy your job. I don't think of reasons to call out because I actually want to be here.
Q: What advice might you have for people who are in the program now?
A: They need to realize this is a job, not a hobby. What we're doing here is something way bigger than what it may look like. I hope they will take it seriously and they won’t take advantage of it.
Thank you for being such a huge part of our team, Smiley! We appreciate all of the hard work and dedication you put into each piece of jewelry that you make!