From Hardship to Hope: Isabel’s Journey on Resilience and Community Impact at So What Else
Isabel Yanez’s life took a challenging turn when the pandemic struck, leaving her without food and facing immense hardship. In her quest for survival, she discovered So What Else (SWE), an organization dedicated to community support. There, she met Megan Joe, a dedicated SWE leader deeply inspired by Isabel’s resilience and spirit. Recognizing her potential, Megan provided Isabel with the opportunity to volunteer, and her hard work and passion quickly became evident.
Through Isabel’s tireless dedication, she not only made a significant impact at SWE but also formed a lasting bond with Megan. After a year of volunteering, Megan offered Isabel a full-time position. Over the past four years, Isabel has risen to the position of Assistant Director and Pantry Manager, solidifying her crucial role within the organization.
Isabel’s commitment to SWE is deeply personal. When she was 32 years old, she experienced the devastating loss of her son due to a brain condition. Her son, who was dedicated and passionate about his church, spent his life preaching and spreading the word of God. His unwavering faith and dedication have been a profound source of inspiration for Isabel, giving her the strength to continue her mission. She finds comfort and peace in his memory, which fuels her relentless energy to serve the community.
Her son’s words resonate with her every day: “I’m so proud of you, Mom! You make me happy by doing what you need to do. Don’t forget, working at So What Else brings blessings from everyone. Just keep going; you are the blessing from SWE!” These words have become a source of motivation for Isabel, reminding her of the impact she makes.
Through her work at So What Else, Isabel has become a beacon of hope for many. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one person can have on a community. She embodies the spirit of kindness, dedication, and love, striving to ensure everyone receives the help they need. Isabel’s journey from personal adversity to becoming a pillar of support for others is a powerful reminder of the difference one individual can make when driven by compassion and purpose.
