We recently connected with Donese Gordon and have shared our conversation below.

Donese, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about serving the underserved.

My 16 year old son Grant Payton was a victim of senseless gun violence on May 29, 2018. Grant recently started his first job at Chick Fil A and three weeks later his life was taken from him. I was filled with anger, but when I saw my pain got me nowhere, I begged God to help me turn my “pain into purpose.” Through the pain, I created “Grant’s World”, a youth job resource training center. Grant’s World is a one-stop shop where youth between the ages 15 to 24 can get the tools they need to get a job. We offer all job related services from interview clothing, training classes, resume preparation, transportation assistance, non-skid resistance shoes, mentorship, financial literacy, and much more…

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers?

I have worked in the staffing industry for years placing adults in careers so I used that experience and created a job resource program for youth.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Grant may no longer be here, but at the same time, he’s everywhere with me; showing me a way to live on. “I almost didn’t survive it. But, what kept me alive is, I refused to bury Grant. Grant’s World helped me to not only keep his legacy alive but to help others through my pain.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

It’s not what “YOU” want to do in life, it is what GOD wants you to do. Seek him first and you will discover “your purpose.” Once you discover your purpose, you will find that nothing in your life can stop you from being all that he created you to be.

Contact Info:

• Website: WWW.GRANTSWORLD.ORG
• Instagram: GRANTSWORLDORG
• Youtube: GRANTSWORLDORG