I am fighting for youth employment. I survived the streets because somebody took the time to think about others. I participated in an employment program that allowed me to write plays and present them to youth across the City of Detroit. I was 14! Therefore, I was not involved in at-risk behaviors and I did not think about home and its issues! I am fighting to provide youth with employment to substitute for feeling hopeless, unfortunate, and the notion that they have to take or kill for what they want. I am fighting to provide youth with employment to substitute thinking about the home life filled with hurt, pain and anger. I am fighting to provide youth with employment to substitute them thinking about dropping out of school. I am fighting to provide youth with employment to have them say, "I am somebody, I have a future, I do not have to follow the path society says because of my home life, I am worth the chance!" I know because I am proof! Despite my home life and being a highschool drop out, I will be graduating in 2011 as Dr. Edwards. My life is not about me....it is about the youth I am fighting for! Join me on this cause!