Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Shanna Monique Carter.
Hi Dr. Carter, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
The journey of Krumpin 4 Success, Inc. began as a heartfelt response to the challenges faced by my child. When she entered this world, life presented us with numerous battles. After enduring domestic violence for several years, my daughter witnessed the trauma that accompanied it. Escaping that tumultuous marriage was a turning point, marking the beginning of a quest for a new and better life. The path forward, however, was not without its obstacles—filled with hurdles, twists, turns, and constraints. The weight of trauma and a broken home cast a shadow over every aspect of our lives. To provide my daughter with a supportive after-school program tailored to her needs, I encountered disappointments with programs that claimed to offer what we sought but fell short. Amidst my quest for a solution, I began to notice other children facing similar struggles who needed an outlet. The inspiration for Krumpin 4 Success, Inc. struck one night while watching the movie “Ritz” in our new home. Determined to create a safe space for youth like my daughter, especially those lacking the basics, the organization took shape.
While driven to help my child, I also envisioned supporting parents with similar testimonies of trials and tribulations. Krumpin 4 Success, Inc. emerged from the idea sparked by my child, rooted in the recognition of shared experiences and a commitment to building a supportive community for families. The journey has been difficult, marked by sacrifices—loss of resources, sleep, and financial stability. Yet, the unwavering purpose to assist young people fueled my determination. As a pioneer in Jacksonville, we faced opposition from those who sought to replicate our ideas without genuine collaboration. Despite challenges, our impact has reached families and organizations in other states. Amid difficulties, a poignant moment with kids in a juvenile facility reinforced the importance of our mission. When asked, “Why do you care so much? No one cares this much,” my response was simple: “Why shouldn’t I?” It became clear that, regardless of the challenges, I could not abandon the mission entrusted to us. Nearly 14 years into this incredible journey, amidst tears, disappointments, and rough times, the knowledge that our work has inspired someone, somewhere, to believe in themselves keeps the flame of purpose burning. Witnessing my daughter thrive, creating a path of creativity and success for herself, adds a deeply fulfilling dimension to the impact of Krumpin 4 Success, Inc.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road for Krumpin 4 Success, Inc. has been far from smooth. The journey has been marked by numerous struggles and challenges that tested the resilience and determination of the organization. Some of the key struggles along the way include:
- Domestic Violence and Trauma: The organization was born out of the aftermath of domestic violence, with my child being a witness to the trauma. Overcoming the impact of these experiences posed a significant emotional and psychological challenge.
- Search for Adequate Programs: The initial struggle revolved around finding an after-school program that could truly accommodate my child’s unique needs. Despite promises on websites, many programs fell short, leading to frustration and a realization of the broader need in the community.
- Financial Constraints: Creating and sustaining an organization focused on youth development requires financial resources. The journey involved sacrifices, financial instability, and a commitment to the cause despite limited funding.
- Opposition and Imitation: As a pioneer in Jacksonville, Krumpin 4 Success, Inc. faced opposition from those who claimed to want to partner but ended up replicating ideas without genuine collaboration. This challenge affected the organization’s growth and highlighted the need to navigate the landscape with resilience.
- Impact on Personal Life: The commitment to the organization meant sacrificing personal comforts, sleep, and stability. The journey demanded a willingness to endure challenges and setbacks for a greater purpose.
- Maintaining Originality: While striving to make a positive impact, there needed to be more work to preserve the originality of ideas in the face of imitations. Balancing the need for collaboration with protecting the organization’s unique vision became a delicate task.
- Emotional Toll: Dealing with the emotional toll of disappointments and setbacks and witnessing the struggles of the youth served by the organization took a toll on both personal and professional levels.
Despite these struggles, the unwavering dedication to the mission and the belief in the positive impact on young lives kept Krumpin 4 Success, Inc. moving forward. The organization’s ability to overcome challenges speaks to my resilience and commitment to creating a supportive space for youth and families.
Thanks for sharing that. Can you tell us more about your business next?
Krumpin 4 Success: Feeding Minds & Making Pathways for Holistic Lifestyles
Introduction
Decrease risk-taking behaviors & recidivism for at-risk youth, justice-involved, incarcerated individuals, and male returning citizens. We aim to empower those facing literacy challenges, addiction, and poverty to achieve financial stability through programs in entrepreneurship, career trades, and patented innovation. We have a Breaking Da Cycle Entrepreneur Program for community-based and correctional facilities to assist participants with self-sufficiency. We are currently in Duval County Jail and Montgomery Correctional Facility. In addition, we have opened Rockin Waffle Cafe as part of our culinary apprenticeship program. Participants are given training, certifications, and part-time. We are excited about this initiative also because we have a fantastic line of products: signature Belgium waffle mixes, syrups, seasonings, sauces, and pork rinds.
Community Impact
Krumpin 4 Success has been a driving force in community development, implementing initiatives addressing many social issues. The organization has tirelessly worked to uplift individuals and families, from educational programs to skill-building workshops. The community impact is evident in the increased access to resources, improved educational outcomes, and enhanced community cohesion. One of the key pillars of Krumpin 4 Success’s community-centric approach is its commitment to providing opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through mentorship programs, career counseling, and vocational training, the organization aims to empower individuals to become self-sufficient contributors to society. By fostering a sense of community ownership, Krumpin 4 Success has successfully created a positive feedback loop where community members actively participate in improving their neighborhoods. Everything we do and offer is an opportunity to help juveniles, incarcerated individuals, and returning citizens.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
It often surprises people that despite living in Florida since 1998 and working with youth since 2009, I’ve never visited any Disney World Parks. While my daughter has experienced every amusement park on the East Coast, my theme park visits have been limited to just one trip each to Wild Adventures and Six Flags Over Georgia. Another surprising fact that often astonishes people is that, despite being known as The Purpose Resuscitator and motivating others, there are times when I struggle to do the same for myself. The encouragement and motivation from those around me inspire me to see the purpose of my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.krumpin4success.org
- Instagram: Krumpin4success
- Facebook: Krumpin4Success
- Linkedin: Shanna Monique Carter
- Twitter: Krumpin4Success
- Other: www.RockinWaffleCafe.com
