MY VIEW OF THE E-KNOCK-ULATION:

On Saturday, June 5th P2W had their 4th annual leadership conference. The day was filled with guest speakers, a cool concert, and free stuff. Sounds like tons of fun right?! It’s so nice to see so many people come together in support of our cause and organization. Things were amazing, even though it’s always difficult to facilitate an event of this size (there were over 150 teens and quite a few parents). Fortunately, thanks to the cooperation and good behavior of everyone there, the conference was a success!

Everyone who spoke and performed did an incredible job, but what I felt was most touching and had the greatest impact was the teen guest speakers from the Phoenix House. These young ladies and gentlemen were brave enough to sit in front of a huge group of their peers (whom they’d just met that morning) and share their stories. Not only were they eloquent and respectful, but most importantly, honest! I sat with them looking at the faces of everyone in the room listening intently as these 2 girls and 3 guys put their entire past on blast and give difficult details. Every person there, adults included, were so moved by their strength and perseverance. Some were moved to tears, other sat silently with a look of sorrowful understanding on their faces. It was so nice to hear so many people thank them for sharing and speak of how their story gave them hope.

So many have similar stories and yet feel so alone. It’s always uplifting to know that others not only understand, but can relate. These amazing people inspired everyone at the conference and are a great example of how anyone can overcome whatever they have been through and come on top a better and stronger person.

Monique Gutierrez,

PTW Orange County