Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Bryant.
Erica, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was raised by my great-grandparents in a small town in East Texas. We were a very low income family. They passed away in 2013 and I wanted to do something to give back and honor them. I began to give out scholarships to deserving high school students from my own paycheck. When I moved to Houston in late 2016, I decided to turn that into a non-profit organization to help the Houston youth.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
There were definitely some struggles. There was doubt and concern that no one would support me. I learned that I just need to do what I am called to do and God would supply the rest.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the It Takes A Village Educational Foundation story. Tell us more about the business.
It Takes A Village Educational Foundation mainly specializes in advancing and promoting literacy to the youth. We also extend a hand to other organizations who need sponsorship for worthy causes. What I am proud of, is not only do we support and collaborate with other organizations, but each experience with our organization is tailored to the needs of the group. We have held events with the Boys and Girls Club, the library and churches; wherever we have noticed a need or had a request.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t believe in luck, per se. I believe in planning but whether successful or not, you still win. There is a learning experience in both. I have held many successful events but even in that I have welcomed feedback to make the next event even better. Failure would just teach me what not to do in the future. Failure is not final, it is just an opportunity to get better.
Contact Info:
- Email: it.takes.a.village.ef@gmail.com
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