This letter was written to the Social Service Coordinator of  Sunflower Lane Apartments.  It is a testament to and example of the important work being done throughout the Better Tomorrows footprint. Our Social Service Coordinators are the heart behind the hard work.

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Letter penned by Anna Jones, – Former resident of Sunflower Lane, Clarksdale, MS

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” – Lao Tzu

Hello, my name is Anna Jones. In 2009, I moved to Sunflower Lane Apartments as I was completing the Practical Nursing program at Coahoma Community College (CCC), and I resided there for 6 years. In 2011, I was accepted into the Fast-Track Registered Nurse Program at CCC. At that time, correspondence was sent out at the apartments that the opportunity to be awarded a scholarship from the NAHMA Educational Foundation and The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation were available for persons residing there. As soon as I received the notice, I applied. I received notification from the NAHMA Educational Foundation that I was awarded a scholarship totaling $1,500 in on June 20, 2011, and I received notification from The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation that I was awarded a scholarship totaling $2,500 on July 5, 2011. These scholarships assisted me with paying school fees and purchasing books. I completed the program and became a registered nurse in June 2012.

In 2013, I returned to school to obtain my Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the Mississippi University for Women. I contacted Mr. Brondon McAfee, Social Services Coordinator in Sunflower Lane and inquired about The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation and NAHMA Educational Foundation scholarships. He informed me they were available and obtained the application for me. I completed the application, required essay, and submitted my information along with my schools’ official transcripts. In June and July 2013, I was notified I was once again the recipient of both scholarships totaling $4,000. I was once again blessed with funds to assist with paying for my educational fees, and I graduated in August 2014.

In 2015, I moved from Sunflower Lane Apartments; however, I am eternally grateful for the assistance I was provided to be able to advance in my educational endeavors. Since moving from Sunflower Lane, I have been blessed to return to school and obtain my Master of Science Degree in Nursing, and I became a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in June 2018. Over the years, I have served in various nursing capacities in my community and currently, I work as an FNP in MS and as needed as an RN at the local hospital. I must give all the glory to God for who and where I am today. I couldn’t have done it without Him, the support of family and friends, and the assistance I received.