Making it Dual Generational - Meet The Popes

Meet the Popes

“As we strive to create a continuum of impact for our children, we cannot underestimate the importance of investing in the family as a whole. This is why we speak so much about making our connection points dual generational. Essentially, Atlas is comprised of two major efforts which are interconnected in a variety of ways. First, is our educational point of focus, encompassing everything from our Christian Learning Center and After School programs to the variety of internship opportunities and leadership development courses. The other point of focus our adult ministries initiative. We offer a rotation of work-shops, community groups, trainings, and partnerships where Atlas is able to walk alongside those leading the children in Greene County. The evening hours at Atlas offer courses on financial freedom, relationships, and spiritual growth, while our Early Childhood program is devoted to equipping parents in teaching their preschool age children the skills they need to become Kindergarten ready. Its always a joy for us here at Atlas to have the opportunity to partner with entire families to reach their God given potential. With that in mind, we are proud to introduce one of those families we have the privilege to partner with, the Pope family... Rhonda, Andre (10th grade), and Shayla (8th grade).”

Tell us about your family.

Four years ago I lost my mother. She was my niece and nephew’s guardian. When she passed away they came to live with me and I became their guardian. Shayla is an 8th grader at Carson Middle School and Andre is a 10th grader at Greene County High School.They are both caring and loving children. They are both student athletes that participate in cross country. They take their academics and athletics very serious.

What inspires your family/goals?

When Andre and Shayla began to live with me, I had no idea how to parent. We have worked together as a family and they have taught me so much about parenting. We encourage and support each other. We motivated each other to accomplish our goals and we celebrate each other.

What makes you a proud aunt?

That the kids are working hard in everything they do.We always have talks with each other and sometimes I think they are not listening. Other people will come up to me and tell me how respectful and hardworking they are. That let’s me know that they are paying attention to our talks. Andre, who just placed 1st in a cross country meet, plans to go to college to become either a marine biologist or wildlife biologist. Shayla, who recently received a REACH scholarship, plans to attend college to become a veterinarian.

What is your first memory of ATLAS?

My first memory of ATLAS was the kids first day of afterschool. I came to pick them up and they both walked out with the biggest smiles. It was the first time I had seen them smile in a long time. ATLAS helped them to open up and talk through their emotions. Seeing them become happy again made me want to get more involved with ATLAS and all they were doing.

How did you get involved with ATLAS?

We were at a sad and unhappy place in life when a family member told me about ATLAS. She told me about the support ATLAS provides through their programs; particularly the afterschool program that had small group settings for the different age groups.

What was the biggest challenge you were facing?

When we became a part of ATLAS we were dealing with the loss of my mother. I gained two kids and did not have an opportunity to grieve because I needed to be strong for them. Andre and Shayla were very quiet and were not expressing their emotions at all. ATLAS was somewhere we could come to have support from people that cared and were there to listen.

What achievement has made you proud?

I recently got my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and moved into a teaching position at Greene County Early Headstart. The kids watched me work both a full time and part time job, attend school and take care of them. Andre told me that watching me do that motivated him to go to school and work harder.

Is there a moment or memory that sticks out?

Homework Diners stick out to me. I look forward to coming. I work two jobs and it prevents us from being able to sit down for dinner as a family most evenings. Homework Diner is a time that we can be together to work on homework as a family.

What should others know about the organization?

ATLAS is family oriented. The people that work at ATLAS truly care about the kids and the families. They have a positive impact on people’s lives. Angel and Nesial talk to me about any issues that I face. They really care about the families and it shows. My kids love coming to ATLAS. They receive help with their homework while they are there. Most importantly, they learn about the Bible.

Anything else you would share?

My kids love ATLAS! I would not trade my experience at ATLAS for anything. When I am out in the community I brag about ATLAS and encourage others to come. I am their biggest promoter. ATLAS has helped me and my family so much. I call Nesial and Angel my mentors. They truly listen and give me good Godly advice.