At a young age, I discovered I could not read due to dyslexia. I did not attend grammar school, nor did I graduate from high school. Looking back I saw my life as one big struggle, one disappointment after another.

But I am a determined individual who has the drive to succeed in life. I decided I was going to learn how to read, so I joined Read Santa Clara's Adult Literacy Program. Since that time, I've won a Library Literary Award for writing the story of my Father's Achievements in the "Book of Learners."

SVILC has helped me move towards my educational goals and towards greater independence in other areas in my life. With the support of a Job Developer and Job Coach, I recently found a job at Madeline's Pet Care in Santa Clara . The job fulfills my vocational goal of working with animals. SVILC has also provided me with counseling and housing support. I will soon be moving into the Supplemental Living Center , SVILC's transitional housing facility.

Now I am looking forward to my future. My plans include getting into school and having a family. I will always emphasize education at home, as it is the ultimate gift in life. I will consider myself "successful" if I can be the kind of father mine was to me. "A good father and a productive citizen, to me, that's the meaning of life!"