At 14, I was facing abuse and felt completely alone. I was ready to give up on life and believed there was no way out of the cycle I was born into. But then something happened.......
At 14 years old, I walked into a nonprofit shelter for runaway, abused, and homeless youth — and for the first time, I felt safe enough to breathe. In that place, hope began to take root. I will never forget the counselors, volunteers, and staff members whose kindness and acceptance gave me the foundation to imagine a different future.
Through my keynote, I celebrate and honor the people behind the mission — reminding staff of the life-changing value in their daily work, showing volunteers the extraordinary impact of their presence, and helping donors see themselves not just as funders, but as true investors in futures.
My message is simple: nonprofits are lifelines, and it takes a community to change a life. I am living proof — what began as the support of strangers became the spark that allowed me to rise, thrive, and give back.
“As a volunteer I never really know if I am making the difference. Hearing Denise and her story changed that
for me."
“Knowing that I am not just making the donation but really making the investment. And then seeing
someone in front of me sharing how that investment helps make a change, it really makes it more powerful.”
“Denise’s story reminds me of why I joined this organization. To make a difference.”
“I always wondered what became of those kids as they became adults. Seeing Denise and hearing where she
is today brings me so much joy. That is what this is all about. Seeing the difference that is being made.”
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