A Letter from the Founder
Nothing can dim the light that shines from within.” ― Maya Angelou
Dear Friends,
​
On behalf of Share For Life Foundation, Inc. (Share 4 Life), I offer my sincerest thanks for your interest. I founded Share 4 Life 18 years ago to provide leadership, inspiration, and assistance within my community and to assist others in achieving their maximum potential.
As a result of growing up in the inner city, I know first-hand the fundamental challenges and impediments to success plaguing at-risk youth. I spent my formative years in Harlem, NY before gentrification in the early 1990s. As a teenager, I was immersed in an environment wrought with illiteracy, crippling poverty, and high crime rates. The daily impact of living in a ghetto with a lack of positive role models led me down a destructive path. I suffered from low self-esteem, anger issues, and a sense of hopelessness about a better life. I almost became a product of my environment until the day that changed the course of my life. While at the wrong place at the wrong time, I was shot in the chest and came very close to death. Although I wasn’t the intended target of the bullet, I did receive it and I believe it was because I was hanging out in the streets, not at school, not at work, and not where I was supposed to be.
This incident was the catalyst that began a shift in my life; it forced me to pause and reevaluate the path I was taking. While recovering I received coaching, support, and guidance that allowed me to change my outlook about my future. I believe I was given a second chance at life along with the support to save myself. This second chance sparked my passion for dedicating my life’s work to saving the lives of young people traveling down the same risky path.
As we approach our 20th Anniversary, Share 4 Life continues to expand its programs and offerings designed to empower the community. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.
​
​
Sincerely,
Janine N. Saulsbury
Founder/Executive Director