Before she ever imagined earning a college degree or building a career in sales, Crystal Reeves was a waitress, living day to day, stuck in a cycle of complacency. “I had no desire for higher education,” she reflects. “A lack of drive, motivation, and self-worth kept me stuck in that state.” But life had bigger plans—and so did she.

With encouragement from Televerde and the Televerde Foundation, Crystal chose to pursue a second chance. What started as a job quickly became a turning point: “Working at Televerde inspired me to earn my bachelor’s degree. The Televerde Foundation continues to motivate me to inspire others to do the same.”

The Hardest Part? Letting Go of Who You Used to Be
Transformation, Crystal says, is not a destination—it’s a journey. It’s about releasing old identities and imagining what’s possible. And for her, that was the most challenging part. “It required me to let go of former identities and explore who I could truly become.”

The Televerde Foundation’s mentorship programs gave Crystal a framework for real, sustainable change. Through personal relationships, consistent encouragement, and a community that believed in her, she found the courage to build a new future.

The Power of Support and Sisterhood 
Crystal credits much of her growth to the network around her. Mentors provided guidance, the staff created a supportive environment, and her peers helped her stay accountable. Together, they formed a sisterhood rooted in trust, motivation, and shared victories.

“Transformation involves breaking free from past constraints,” she says, “and the Foundation’s mentorship gave me the perspective I needed to embrace change.”

A Cinderella Moment: Recognized for Her Remarkable Journey
Crystal was recently honored as a Cinderella during the Once Upon a Second Chance event—an acknowledgment reserved for women who have demonstrated outstanding transformation, resilience, and leadership in their reentry journeys. Chosen by her employer for her dedication and exceptional work, the recognition was both humbling and empowering.

“To be chosen as a Cinderella was surreal,” Crystal shares. “It wasn’t just about where I came from—it was about who I’ve become. Being recognized by the people I work with made it even more meaningful.”

The honor reinforced her commitment to lifting others up and continuing her journey with purpose. It served as a powerful reminder that second chances aren’t just about redemption—they’re about rising into your potential and showing others what’s possible.

A Ripple Effect on Family and the Future
As Crystal transformed, so did the energy in her home. “They noticed these changes in me,” she says of her family. “I’m now a happier, stronger, and more resilient individual.” Her shift in mindset brought about a deeper sense of trust and connection, creating stronger family bonds and a more positive environment.

Her goals today reflect that forward momentum—career advancement, personal fulfillment, and the confidence to meet any challenge head-on. “I’m committed to prioritizing the aspects of life that bring me joy,” she says.

Lessons in Strength—and a Message of Hope
When times get tough, Crystal turns inward. She taps into her resilience, reflects on her journey, and surrounds herself with people who lift her up. “A positive mindset and small, achievable goals help me build confidence,” she shares. “It’s this combination of self-awareness, support, and a proactive approach that enables me to rise above life’s difficulties.”

Perhaps the most powerful part of her journey is how she’s reframed her past—not with shame, but with perspective. “Ironically, incarceration motivated me to graduate from college with honors, secure a career in sales, and overcome every obstacle in my path.”

To those facing similar struggles, Crystal’s advice is this:
“Embrace the struggle. Shift your mindset. You never know which challenge will lead you to become the person you are destined to be.“