For much of Mona Dixon’s life, she and her family lived in a constant state of change. All too often, they were reduced to moving from one homeless shelter to another.

Those difficult experiences led Mona to seek out a place she could consider a home. In 2005, she found it at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley in Tempe, Arizona.

“The Boys & Girls Club is my home away from home. It brought stability to my life, and I am sure if children could, many would probably choose to pack up their rooms and stay there.”

From the day she joined the Club, Mona took advantage of any opportunity to teach younger children as to why it’s important to be a responsible, caring and productive individual.

While filming a recent Boys & Girls Clubs of America public service announcement, Mona reflected on her often grueling childhood.

“The Club quickly changed my entire life. My $20 annual membership turned into my miracle.”

Mona, now 26, is pursuing her Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership. As a motivational speaker, she helps empower teens with tools to succeed in education, business and life.

Learn more about Mona at monadixon.com.