Q: Tell us about you and Ready for Good.

My name is Leslee Beverly. I’m joining you guys all the way from the small town of Lawrence, Kansas. I work at Ready for Good. We’re an ESE that sells furniture, but our mission is to help at risk youth and kids within the foster system.

My role there is a little bit complicated. I’m a youth leader as well as customer service experience manager. I do a little bit of everything. I’m jack of all trades. I believe you have to be versatile in an organization like this in order to be effective and great team member.

Q: What brought you to Ready for Good?

My journey has been challenging, yet rewarding. I started at Ready for Good three years ago after making a series of young, silly, bad decisions. I found myself in some legal trouble. I was fortunate enough to complete my community service at Ready for Good, where I fell in love with their mission. I began speaking with our owner, Addison Shockley, and shared how inspired I was by the mission and community he had created.

Two and a half years later, after learning more about myself and learning to live a more stable and sober lifestyle, I feel like [working here] is not only a job, but a purpose. I’m beyond grateful to be a part of something this meaningful.

Not long ago I would have considered myself an at-risk youth. I’m 24 and have a completely different outlook on life. I’ve been on the other side of things. I’ve done the crime. I’ve done the time. And now at this point, I want to prevent kids from going into that lifestyle. I want to show them there’s a better way. You don’t have to experiment and you don’t have to try to fit in. You’ll find your place in a matter of time. You’re a product of your environment, and you have to make sure you have a great environment around you. I strongly believe that you’ll find your feet.

Q: What advice would you give to young people thinking about their options?

Just get out and do it. Life is way too short, which I’ve realized over the years. Get out and do it. Find what you love to do and do it and take the necessary steps in order to find your happiness. Find your peace. Find a place where you fit in.

It doesn’t happen overnight, but I guarantee you, with the effort and some time, you’ll find your place.

More on Ready for Good Co.

Ready for Good is an Accelerator Alum that trains and mentors 50+ youth annually in its “Furnished for Good” program that takes youth 10 weeks to complete, on average. The organization provides paid work experience, training in life and job readiness skills, mentorship, and wraparound support services.