Who We Are

I am Kowjuana Ross-Kirkland, Executive Director, of Love My Life Inc. (LML). I have been a dedicated teacher of youth in special education programs, a coach for school and community athletic teams, a mentor and sponsor for children and young adults. I am also a local business owner, mother and wife. At times it is almost overwhelming, but I have always felt compelled to try and help change the course of our future by changing the path of our youth.
 

I remember when our communities were bursting with mentors and volunteers in our school and community centers. I am glad to say, I was one of the youths that was a part of this bursting community that helped shape me, give me confidence and empower me to be a productive citizen in society. As I worked with some of these children today, I see myself all over again, having the desire to do something good, but not having the support. I know that no matter how far I get in life, I will never forget where I came from. 

Love My Life, Inc. started in my classroom, when some of my students would come to school dirty, hungry, tired and sometimes angry. Some of them were diagnosed with Autism, and Asperger’s syndrome. While others were just angry for being taken away from their parent, grandparent or the only caregiver they have ever known. My students were often bullied or ignored. I felt that, I had to do something. No child should regularly feel hungry, forgotten, 'different,' and unhappy. My homeless students would say, "that school is a home to them it's a place where they can count on seeing their buddies." They eat at the same time everyday with their classmates. It's a place where they feel like they own something, even if it's only for nine months out of a year, their desk, their books, even their place in line. I started LML to support children and families living in underserve, and violent communities because, I want all children no matter their socioeconomic status, race, physical /psychiatric condition, to have opportunities that will help them to love their life.

Thank You,

~K