CHANGING THE ODDS
THE INSPIRING WAYS OUR COMMUNITY IS CREATING A PATH TO ECONOMIC STABILITY
NOVEMBER 12, 2017
We can all learn from the inspiring story of Charlotte’s Rohan Brown. Just five years ago, at 24 years old, Rohan was selling his blood plasma and taking on any yard work he could find to support himself. Raised in poverty, his chances ofreaching economic stability were not good. A 2014 national study ranked Charlotte 50 out of 50 big cities in providing opportunities for people like Rohan to climb the economic ladder. But today, Rohan is beating the odds, with the help of our community’s deepening drive to create more opportunities for people born with few advantages. Now 29, Rohan has worked his way into a good career with benefits and income that support his wife and two young children. Rohan’s journey illustrates the circuitous nature of the path from poverty to stability. It also reflects determination, the critical role nonprofits can play, and a willingness by his employer to take risks.
THE CHALLENGE IS CLEAR
Lifting more families from poverty can feel overwhelming, but with perseverance – and action by each of us- it can be achieved. Over the last two years, the Charlotte Will coalition has sought to raise awareness of the opportunity gap that undermines Charlotte’s success. This coalition of 23 public, private and nonprofit organizations – including The Charlotte Observer – has invested in a campaign to support and draw attention to nonprofit agencies making a difference throughout the Charlotte region.