David Byrd
Los Angeles
“Waking up, thanking God for being around great people. I like to help the youth by giving my time. In order to be grateful, you have to give to others.”
Shandela Contreras
Los Angeles
“I’m grateful for my poetry. As long as I’m able to amplify my voice and give people an opportunity to share their experiences … I know I can bring appreciation and gratitude.”
Johnnie Grier-Spicer
Carson
“I’m so grateful to be here to see today. For family, for friends, I’m just grateful. … It’s just a blessing to be able to see another moment.”
Jonathan Jenkins
Los Angeles
“For great friends that stood by me. I work in television production. It’s been hard with the strikes going on. Friends have supported me and helped me find other jobs.”
Compiled by Cynthia Gibson in Willowbrook.
