In a recent meeting held by California Volunteers, the inspiring journey of Divya Esperanto Seagales was highlighted, showcasing the transformative impact of the Long Beach Public Service Corps Fellowship. Seagales, a recent graduate from Cal State Long Beach, shared her personal struggles with homelessness, unemployment, and food insecurity before finding stability through the fellowship program.

Seagales recounted her experiences of living in precarious situations, including renting rooms, sleeping on couches, and even spending nights in her car. These challenges pushed her into survival mode, where she focused solely on meeting her basic needs. However, her determination led her to apply for the fellowship just before the deadline, a decision that would change her life.

After a successful interview, Seagales was placed in the Office of Youth Development, where she found a supportive environment that encouraged her growth. She emphasized the importance of maintaining hope and utilizing available resources, crediting her positive attitude and curiosity as key factors in her journey.

The meeting underscored the significance of programs like the Long Beach Public Service Corps Fellowship, which not only provide opportunities for personal development but also address broader issues of homelessness and youth support in the community. Seagales' story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the potential for change, inspiring others facing similar challenges to seek help and remain hopeful for a better future.

As California Volunteers continues to promote initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable populations, the impact of personal stories like Seagales' highlights the critical need for community engagement and resource accessibility. The meeting concluded with a call to action for ongoing support and development of programs that uplift individuals and foster hope within the community.