FINALIST Krystle Curry When Krystle Curry thinks back on her childhood, she remembers her mom working three jobs to make ends meet. But she also remembers a mom who planned fun trips to Six Flags, bought her a car and purchased the new shoes Krystle had hoped for. “My mom was a hard worker, she overcame obstacles and she still made things happen for us,” remembers Krystle. “I will never forget those things, and now that’s what I’m doing with my kids.” Since she was a teen, Krystle has felt her calling in life is to help and serve others, a responsibility she hopes to pass on to her sons: Lium, 14; Londan, 11; and Levi, 9. “I didn’t necessarily grow up poor, but I remember what it was to struggle and not have everything I wanted,” said Krystle. In her career and in the community, she has sought out ways to help those in need. During the day, Krystle works as a financial advisor assistant. A strong proponent of continued education, she recently earned her master’s degree in business administration and is working on her licensing to become a financial advisor. The industry appealed to her because she can help improve people’s lives. “I can help underprivileged communities learn about financial literacy and take care of my family at the same time,” said Krystle. In the evenings, she connects individuals with utilities and housing assistance through a nonprofit organization. She also volunteers for the NAACP Housing Program, doing similar work, plus helping those who have been discriminated against find resources and recourse. The need for assistance with rent and bills has increased astronomically during the pandemic. While Krystle humbly asserts she’s simply the conduit for those seeking help, she gets emotional thinking about the many messages of thanks she’s received from the people she’s been able to connect with resources that mean they can stay housed, warm and safe. “I’ve realized how fortunate I am; I don’t ever want to take anything for granted,” said Krystle. “It has made me think about times I’ve been in need. And I’ve felt responsible to follow through [with their applications] because these people have left a part of themselves in my consciousness.” Those experiences inspired her to start her own nonprofit. Virtuous Women with Hearts recently received 501(c)3 status and will help provide clothing and housewares to those in need in our community. Krystle’s giving heart extends to the ways she mothers her three sons, too. For the past six years, their family of four has bundled up on Christmas morning to travel downtown and serve meals through the Red Andrews Christmas Dinner. “I want them to understand the importance of giving back and loving others unconditionally,” said Krystle. “I teach my kids never to judge, no matter what a person’s background is or where they come from.” Krystle’s greatest hope for her sons is that they will impact the world around them in a loving, inclusive way, be that in sharing their
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30 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY-JUNE 2022
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