LIFT Annual Report 2015: Creating A Better Way | Page 9

________ quality school for Mohammad. “LIFT has been like a father, a mother, like parents for me because they helped me get everything I needed,” Ms. Diarra beams. “Before, I felt like I was alone. Since finding LIFT, I know I’m not alone. We’re working together to help me accomplish my dreams.” Building a better future When Ms. Diarra first came to the U.S., her future was in limbo. She had left an abusive husband in Mali to start life anew with her son Mohammad. This is their story. _________ Employed and with a safe home for herself and her son, Ms. Diarra set her sights on going back to school. Ms. Diarra’s ambition to pursue an advanced degree dovetailed with the launch of a new LIFTDC partnership with Trinity University to provide scholarships and support to women with young children. Recognizing Ms. Diarra’s dedication to building a better future for her family, we invited her to apply for a scholarship and she was one of three single mothers who won. In addition to the scholarship, LIFT donors helped send Ms. Diarra back to school with a new laptop and textbooks. Today, she’s taking her future by storm. Ms. Diarra has an A average and will be transitioning to the full time program next spring. Ms. Diarra also spreads the word about LIFT’s services and speaks at LIFT events about our work to help families like hers escape the cycle of poverty for good. 554% LIFT Members in Washington, D.C. have achieved 54% more education-related successes last year. As a result, more people are working to secure their future by getting a GED or going to college! Ms. Diarra continues to inspire us through her hard work and resolve. When we asked her what keeps her motivated she responded, “Because I want a better future for me and Mohammad,” and LIFT will be there every step of the way. 9