“I was struggling a lot in school. I had no friends and little motivation to improve my grades – I just didn’t see the importance of it. To add to it all, my family situation was going downhill fast. I reached the point where my grades were slipping, my emotional state was the worst it had ever been, and I had lost all hope. I ended up getting kicked out of my house, went from couch to couch when I was able – most of the time I slept in my truck.
That’s when you came into my life, Mrs. Hampton. You were the only person that showed me any kindness and support in the hardest time in my life. You made sure I had food, clean clothes on my back, and a place to shower. You made sure I was making better life choices, succeeding in school, etc. – you gave my life direction and presented me with goals to strive for. I knew in the back of my mind that I had someone who was there for me when it seemed like I was alone in the world. You constantly reminded me I could count on you whenever I needed you, but also pushed me to be a better person and to mend my family relationships. You gave me support in all aspects of my life. You were a helping hand, a place to go to, and someone to talk to before, during, and after school when everything became too much. You were that one caring person that always came to me with a smile that I will never forget. You helped me love myself again and taught me to never give up on my dreams. One of those dreams being the Navy…
Without your kindness and support, I know for a fact that I would have given up and dropped out of school. Because of you, I am a better version of myself than I ever imagined. I’m proud to say that I walked with my senior class across that stage just as you told me I would. I left home with a great appreciation and love for my family. And even though it took everything in me, I made it through Boot Camp because I could hear you pushing me and believing in me. It helped remembering the hard times I went through and how you were always there for me and showed me I am deserving…I am worthy. Words can never explain how thankful I am to have you, Mrs. Hampton, in my corner and I will continue to make you proud!”
-Nate Bane, CIS Alumnus (Centerville High School)