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Why I'm Running for Vancouver City Council

 

I'm running for City Council because I believe Vancouver's future should be shaped by solutions that truly serve every resident. When citizens thrive, the city thrives, and my practical experience and compassionate approach are exactly what Vancouver needs right now. My priorities are clear and focused on the well-being of all our citizens.

As a long-time resident of Vancouver, I've witnessed firsthand its incredible transformation from a close-knit community into a vibrant metropolitan city. While this growth brings exciting opportunities, it also presents significant challenges that demand thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate leadership from our City Council.

 

My Journey and Dedication to Vancouver

 

My journey in Vancouver began as a cosmetologist, a profession that evolved into teaching as a cosmetology instructor. This experience sparked a profound realization: the simple act of a haircut could be a powerful conduit for connection, love, and encouragement. This insight led me to found Hands of Favor in Vancouver in 2013, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving our most vulnerable citizens.

For seven impactful years, Hands of Favor operated daily, providing free haircuts and grooming services to the homeless, the poor, and underserved individuals in our city. What began as a ministry blossomed into a comprehensive network, forging 24 partnerships across four counties, with Vancouver proudly serving as our base of operations. We collaborated with esteemed social services organizations like Open House Ministries, Project Homeless Connect, Compassion Connect, Dress for Freedom, the Council for the Homeless, and numerous local churches and elementary schools. Through these efforts, we directly touched the lives of over 20,000 people.

My time with Hands of Favor was more than just providing a service; it was about building lasting relationships, listening to countless stories, and understanding the hopes and dreams of our neighbors. This experience profoundly shaped my understanding of the complex challenges facing our community. My leadership at Hands of Favor has taught me the power of collaboration, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication in tackling complex community challenges.

 

My Priorities for Vancouver

 

I am prepared to work diligently with my fellow council members, city staff, and most importantly, the residents of Vancouver, to bring about tangible positive change. This is how we ensure that when citizens thrive, the city thrives as well.

While there are numerous concerns, my top priorities are:

• Ending the homelessness crisis through sustainable solutions.

• Strengthening public safety and community trust.

• Supporting our veterans and valuing their service.

• Cultivating educational excellence and safe learning environments.

• Fostering responsible growth and economic vitality.

• Addressing our mental health challenges.

 

Join Me in Building a Better Vancouver

 

I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I humbly ask for your trust, your vote, and your support for Vancouver City Council in 2025. Together, we can build a safer, more compassionate, and more prosperous Vancouver for all.