Leo O E Ofa

Education begins with preparation. Le’o ‘o e OFA advocates for minority youth and at-risk teens in our community. Teens whose unseen but heartbreaking struggles for survival often affect their ability to prioritize and pursue education. All teens regardless of race, color, and economic status should be granted equal rights to education. This is often hard for them to believe as putting food on the table or escaping abusive home situations may take precedence. However, we must do our due diligence and ensure resources are accessible and programs created to allow them to succeed in their academic journey. Resources such as school supplies go a long way in empowering teens to stay in school. Having a backpack, pens, and notebook may seem insignificant to many, but to those who struggle it is a tool of empowerment. Access to these provide hope and the belief that education may serve as a gateway for a better way of life for them and their families. It all starts with having the right tools. Wouldn’t you agree? A paint brush in the hand of a painter, a chisel in the hand of a master carver. Why not school supplies in the hands of a formidable child/teen/young adult with a sense of purpose to build a better life for them, their families and the future generation.