TABATHA KENNEDY.

What EWOP gave me was more than education. It gave me permission to dream again.

Thirteen years ago, one devastating choice changed my life and others’ forever. After working overtime, I decided to drink and drive, causing a car accident that took the life of a 39-year-old father of two. I was sentenced to 15 years in prison and served 11. Now, I have been home on parole for 29 months.

While incarcerated, I began a true relationship with God. He started to lead me down a path of growth, healing, and discovery. I signed up for as many classes and programs as I could. Determined to use that time to become a better woman, I pushed forward, despite the weight of my sentence.

One day, I wrote to EWOP with my testimony and applied for the program. I will never forget the shock and joy I felt when I was accepted after interviewing with Ms. Pam and Ms. Karen. Arriving at Lockhart, I didn’t fully understand what I had signed up for. I was told that EWOP was about entrepreneurship and purpose, and at the time, I thought both were far beyond my reach. But the volunteers of EWOP walked with me every step of the way, teaching me, guiding me, and helping me grow.

What EWOP gave me was more than education. It gave me permission to dream again. For a long time, I believed my life was over, that I had nothing left to offer because of the terrible choice I had made. But through EWOP, I learned that my story wasn’t finished. They showed me that even broken pieces can be made into something beautiful.

Since coming home, I sometimes struggle to feel worthy of the goodness in my life. But I hold on to what God and EWOP have instilled in me: I can move forward, my life has purpose, and I can use my experience to encourage others.

After coming home, I had much to catch up on. EWOP helped with my housing deposit at an Oxford House, doctor’s appointments, eye exams, and even glasses. They have been a guiding light, and I believe God placed EWOP here for women like me.

Today, I am rebuilding my life with gratitude and hope. My children and I have restored our relationship, and I am now a proud grandmother to a little girl who adores me. I am also pursuing my dream of launching a food business, Wonton Nation, while building a company with my husband.

I am living proof that God is a restorer of all things. I am thankful for second chances, for the love of my family, and for EWOP’s role in helping me discover my purpose and dream again. My journey is far from over, but I am truly blessed.

Tabatha Kennedy, founder of Wonton Nation.