Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Shipman.
Hi Rachel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
My name is Rachel and I grew up in Orange County. I moved away for college at LSU and returned about 8 years ago. My childhood best friend, Jasien Chapmann, and I got together and wanted to help create a safe space for children to thrive. Much like our own experiences growing up outside Orlando around Pine Hills. I have an incarcerated loved one and spent a lot of time involved in state legislative reform for our prison system. I focused on quality Healthcare for all people regardless of socio-economic status and empowering directly impacted families to engage with their legislators. Throughout that process, I knew where I really wanted to be, was working in the communities with our youth, focused on prevention and empowerment. Project Street Light was incorporated in 2019 to engage youth with community service opportunities and provide leadership training in a safe, fun environment. I am a single mother and nursing student, who loves people and helping youth realize their potential. I believe every child is a leader and deserves an opportunity for a bright future and meaningful employment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Anything worth achieving requires dedication and overcoming challenges. We continue to work through every challenge presented and learn from each experience.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am most known for dedication to my community and criminal justice/prison reform work. I am a certified credible messenger and work to connect local partnerships among small nonprofits in our community. I believe we are truly stronger together and can have a greater impact on our community through cross-organizational teamwork and networking.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I have learned is that the tide always changes and to roll with the punches. If I gave up every time, I felt defeated than we wouldn’t have distributed over 10,000 books to Orange County youth since October 2020. We wouldn’t have assembled 1,000 new stuffed duffel bags for foster children in Central Florida and we wouldn’t have engaged over 40 youth with their community this year. No matter what comes my way, I stay committed to our nonprofit volunteer work, because it’s what drives me and makes me feel purposeful.
Contact Info:
- Email: Info@projectstreetlight.com
- Website: Www.projectstreetlight.com
- Facebook: Www.facebook.com/projectstreetlight
