My Name Is Holly Cantrell...

If someone asked me why I needed Ripple, I don’t know that I could tell them I knew I needed it before actually participating in it. When I first applied to the program, I did it on a hope and a prayer. I was in a place in my life where I lacked direction and was struggling to determine what was best for me and my son. I knew a little about finances, but lived paycheck to paycheck.

There was a speaker at one of the churches I attended who talked about how Ripple helps single mothers. At that time, I tucked it in the back of my mind but didn’t pursue it. I even gave Ripple as a community resource to mothers I encountered on my jobs because of the impact the speaker made, but I didn’t consider it for myself. Before Ripple, I struggled to ask for help because I felt like it showed weakness. For me, it meant that I was failing.

As I continued to tell parents about how great this program was, how it was a good resource for them that worked on financial, educational, health and even spiritual goals...I started to realize how I needed help in those areas of my life, too.

I had moved five times since having my son, I wasn’t maintaining steady employment, and I was struggling with severe depression. I wanted more stability for myself and my son, so I applied.

After applying to the program, I didn’t realize how much work it would be — and I didn’t expect how much support it would provide on a deeper level. From the interview process to the probationary period to the whole two year program, I’ve made connections with people who make me feel loved and encouraged, and not just part of a process.

My mentor makes me and my son feel like family. My financial coach is one of my biggest cheerleaders and has never made me feel ashamed of my debt or mistakes. My health coach has helped me remember how important looking at health holistically is. Each one has helped me find a piece of my confidence and built me up.

Ripple has taught me valuable information about better budgeting and managing my credit. For the first time in my life, I have savings for my son and for emergencies. I’ve learned to hold myself accountable, and how to talk to my kid about money. That was something I never really thought about before. My son has learned more about what finances are and why saying no to something isn’t always a bad thing.

When I look back, I think the most important things I learned are that asking for help isn’t weakness, and caring for myself isn’t selfishness.

Working with my team, I’ve been able to set and meet goals for myself and my son. I’ve felt continually loved and supported throughout this experience.

I’m proud to have found confidence in my myself and artwork again. My Ripple team encouraged me to take part in an arts festival. This is something I NEVER would’ve had the confidence to do before Ripple.

I’ve made lasting connections, and feel supported even after graduating from the program. In the future, I’m excited to give back by leading groups focused on art, coping skills, and spiritual work.

If you’re thinking about participating in Ripple, do it — and when you start, be honest and open. Give them all the pieces of the puzzle, even the ones you’re ashamed of. Everyone likes to hide their flaws, but if they don’t have all the pieces, they can’t help you create the final picture you want.

All the people that contribute to Ripple of One are making a difference in the participants’ and their children’s lives. Ripple is helping its members find their confidence to make lasting change.

Holly

*Holly holds a masters degree and currently works at Pickens Mental Health. *She will complete her 2 year training to become a Licensed Professional Counselor this summer 2023. *She saved $11,000 while in the Ripple Program.