Introducing Erin!

I am delighted to introduce you to our Chloe's Place... Program Director!

Erin Whinnery has spent her life as an observer of people, patterns and possibilities. Her strengths lie in research and development and problem solving; specifically through the application of principles. Her passion is truth. Her vision is to encourage individuals to embrace the pain necessary to fulfill their destinies. She engages the world with intentionality, convinced that every human being has the making of greatness.

Erin believes that success comes when one embraces the reality of rights through personal responsibility. She understands that relationships are the conduit for achievement. And while remaining single-focused, she continually strives to never be narrow-minded.

“I chose Chloe’s Place for my efforts because of a desire to give out of what I’ve received. I was raised with a strong, solid and blessed foundation. I believe one should build off of such a foundation, not just admire it.

“Chloe’s Place is committed to equipping and releasing young moms so they in turn can equip and release their children. Isn’t that beautiful?

“Chloe’s Place isn’t another welfare system. It’s an equipping station; providing women with the resources they need to break free of the bondage of poverty in all its facets—physical, social, emotional and spiritual.

“Chloe’s Place provides me with an opportunity to put my beliefs in action and contribute to the prosperity of future generations. I know of no greater calling after the equipping of my own children.”

Just You...Right?

I have been thinking of a comment a colleague made, a few years back. She said, " I hear you talk a lot about CHLOE, but it is really 'just you' right?" I've wondered over time just how many people share that opinion. There are actually quite a few people who have made integral investments in leadership, service and expertise to get us to this apex. I did a tally in my head and thought of 40 in a quick count. Some have been on board from the start. Some signed on for a single project or service. One group joined us specifically to learn from us, then launched their own project. Some have tested the waters then jumped ship without warning; leaving me in a quandary. Every non-profit program director I've met with shares the anguish of the wax and wane of volunteer rosters. I am learning that i simply can't take it personally when people abandon the cause...but it is difficult.

We are starting the New Year with a great group of committed volunteers! During 2010 I expect to see a multi-fold increase in people who join forces to help break the cycle of poverty for young single moms and their children. Our friends at Hope House of Colorado keep 250 volunteers busy... another great example of their excellent leadership!

So how many people do we need to make our GED pilot project successful? We need 5- motivated students, 2-facilitators, 5-mentors, child care providers, transporters, and lunch preparers/servers. Potentially we will offer 36 class sessions for 5 young women (including child care, transportation, and lunch). While this pilot project is our current focus we continue to need volunteers to help with other aspects of business, promotion, and technology.

At this point in our journey we are not adequately funded to pay even our professional staff, but that day will come! I am exceedingly grateful for those who are willing to get on board at this juncture.