Spring Fundraiser 2025 - Designing Life’s Blueprint
Diana’s Story
Diana, a 2013 Begin Anew graduate, reflects on how Begin Anew was instrumental in changing her professional, personal and spiritual life—guiding her on the path to where she is today.
“I am so grateful I graduated from Begin Anew. This ministry has been the biggest blessing to me and my daughters.” -Diana
Shelley Walters - The Joy of Serving: My Journey with Begin Anew
Have you ever had a moment when everything clicked, and you just knew—without a doubt—that you were exactly where you were meant to be? Shelley shared with us what that moment looked like for her.
“Teaching has been a lifelong passion of mine. For nearly 20 years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work as a college English professor, guiding her students through the challenging waters of thesis statements, comma splices, and the occasional last-minute essay panic.
After years of teaching, I stepped down to help my husband start a business. At the time, that sounded like a fantastic idea—until about five minutes in, when I felt the ache of a classroom-shaped hole in my heart.
So, I did what I always do when life throws me a curveball and I have no clue what’s next—I prayed. “Lord, help me find a way to serve students while still being there for my family. Also, if this could involve NOT grading essays, that’d be great.”
Click her to download her full story
Dewayne’s Journey with Begin Anew:
Dewayne was born and raised in Nashville, TN by his loving mother and grandma, who’s truly missed today. Growing up from the age of 6, he can remember, “I used to come home from church and do church. Never knew what I was doing, but I was acting like I was preaching. My grandma used to tell my brother and people who were around, ‘Leave him alone; he’s preaching’.”
Dewayne told us about how the Lord has given him a gift of “touching hearts, giving a message, and facing fears of rejection.” Throught his life from ages 18-21, Dewayne was in jail but not far from God. The saying he refers to is, “You better find the Lord before he finds you.” He followed up by saying, “I thank Jesus Christ for letting me find my father in the midst of my trials and tribulations.”
We asked Dewayne how he found Begin Anew and what it meant to him:
“Finding this program gave me chills, help, love, and a vision… I started Begin Anew several years ago. Life events got in the way of me returning immediately after COVID. When I finally decided to return, I didn’t have much faith, but I knew I needed to work toward earning my HSE to have a better life. Ms. Andrea reached out to me (with a different perspective) and the tables turned into a testimony.”
Dewayne is excited to finish the program and use what he has learned in his career. He loves math and is excited to utilize his new-found math skills in his future career after graduating!
“After graduating from Begin Anew, what is next for me is the Lord ordering my steps. After I walk onto the stage, I am going straight into my job degree in construction. I will achieve everything I face and what God throws at me. I can’t wait to say ‘Thank you God’.”
“‘Habakkuk 2:3 if the Vision may seem slow wait on it.’ Every day, I will move like victory is set upon my heart through Christ in the name of Jesus.”
Lisa’s Journey with Begin Anew:
Lisa grew up in Camarillo, California, where her mother encouraged her artistic and creative spirit. Raised by her mother, a single parent, Lisa learned resourcefulness through thrift-store finds. She began customizing her clothes to fit her “punk” style. Art was Lisa’s life. Her high school art teacher, Miss Baskin, became her biggest supporter and inspired her to apply for scholarships for art school.
However, by senior year, Lisa's focus shifted, and she dropped out of high school. After marrying and having five children, she faced a turbulent home life marked by alcohol and abuse. Despite starting an art business, the desire to earn her high school diploma lingered.
After divorcing her husband, Lisa moved to Tennessee with her children and began volunteering at a domestic violence support group. That’s when she discovered Begin Anew! Begin Anew was Lisa’s third attempt at getting her high school diploma. She began attending weekly classes and fell in love with the program and volunteers. She found her tribe at last! Despite Lisa’s reluctance to face her least favorite subjects, Math and Science, she was urged by staff and volunteers to take the tests anyways.
Reflecting on Bible studies with Miss Patti, she felt bolstered by her faith. With the Holy Spirit guiding her, Lisa faced the challenges head-on. Guided by John 14:26- “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you”- and she went on to pass the tests!
The moment she received her diploma was a celebration filled with joy! Her new husband, friends, and family all cheered her on, especially her son Nick who said, “My parents have always been dreamers, and I always felt doomed to be one. It gives me hope to see one of them accomplish one of their dreams!” Lisa’s journey with Begin Anew, coupled with her determination and faith, highlights her ultimate triumph over adversity!
Make an impact today
Your gift of $2,500 ($210 per month) allows a student to work toward achieving their diploma
Your gift of $1,200 ($100 per month) provides 8 students with materials for the High School Equivalency Exam
Your gift of $500 ($42.00 per month) provides students access to the digital curriculum
Your gift of $300 ($25 per month) provides 2 months of snacks for children of enrolled students
