“Jabez is the definition of perseverance,” says Terrance French, PTM’s high school and Thrive director. “ I have watched him take on challenges and opportunities with a tenacity that causes you to cheer him on. He is a fighter pushing for his dreams with a heart of gold.”
Jabez, Western Kentucky University bound, came to PTM as a freshman when invited by his friend, Jeraney. He immediately bonded with
then high school director Jay Thompson. His first PTM memory is the giant slip n’ slide at Calvin House. Prior to coming to PTM he was just going home to sleep every day, he didn’t have much going on, he shared.
Q: Jabez, what are some words to describe you?
A: Courageous, brave, persistent and humorous in my own way.
Q: Who is someone you admire and why?
A: My mom. She works hard making sure me and my little brother are good. She has been through a lot. Sometimes we get things cut off but she always comes through.
Q: Who is someone, living or dead, that you would like to have lunch with?
A: Barack Obama. I would ask him what paved the way to do what he did.
Q: What brings you joy?
A: Helping people- I find joy in helping people.
Q: Favorite sports team and sport?
A: Oakland Raiders and basketball.
Q: What is an event that you feel changed your life in a big way?
A: My mom and dad getting a divorce. It created a new world for me.
Q: What do you feel you have gained from your time at PTM?
A: If I hadn’t come to PTM I would not have had my internship at Meharry or connected with Opportunity Now. I wouldn’t know why we need the Bible so likely would not have been baptized. PTM helped with goals and work ethic. And just all the activities and the fun that I have had.
Q: Your favorite PTM memory?
A: The retreat a couple of years ago with the Blueprint for your life theme…everything on that trip was my favorite…tie dye, performing, setting up…
Q: When someone says your name what do you hope they think about?
A: Awesome, smart, on the right track, being there for others, kind and humble.
Q: What do you see your life being like in 10 years?
A: A job based on my degree…doing what I love, travel, not married or family just yet.
Q: Fun fact about you?
A: I have double-jointed thumbs!
**Note: Jabez is in the process of applying for the PTM Legacy Fund scholarship to help with college expenses. You might see him working hard at the Nashville West Target.
Go Jabez and the WKU Hilltoppers!