.Michael is enrolled in two of Operation HOPE’s flagship programs: Credit & Money Management and Small Business Development. Working with Financial Wellbeing Coach Liz Joiner over the last year, he has built a foundation for financial stability and a legacy through entrepreneurship. As a result, a goal that once felt out of reach — buying his first home — is now within sight for next year.

This is Michael’s story in his own words.

At age 60, while living in a sober living house (a house for folks recovering from either an alcohol or drug addiction), I met Liz Joiner, a coach with Operation HOPE. The thought of someone supporting me in becoming successful in business and handling finances seemed like a really good idea for me and my recovery. I promised her I would schedule an appointment to meet. I was not aware of the impact she would have on my life.

Two areas of my life were about to improve significantly: financial maturity including credit building, and business development.

Regarding financial growth — financial literacy was not taught in my family. Even though my father had grade-A excellent credit, it was not something he taught me. Before meeting Liz, I had never been able to save money beyond a single two-week pay period. I never had any savings. I have never carried an active credit card account past six months without it being canceled due to nonpayment.

As for business development — over my adult life I attempted several businesses that never got off the ground. From selling Malcolm X tapes and books by African American authors in the late ’80s out of the trunk of my car, to creating a nonprofit organization that addressed social justice concerns during the summer of George Floyd’s death, I never had the ability to create something sustainable.

Since February of 2025, I’ve been working with Liz as my coach. In that short period of time, I’ve become a published author, created a YouTube channel focused on spiritual wellness content, and developed a workshop that guides people through a journaling process that leads to healing and wellness. I have the beginnings of a faith-based spiritual wellness coaching business. In January 2026, I facilitated my first Fortitude Foundations Workshop as a Recovery Wellness Coach, hosted by the Salvation Army Jacksonville Area Command. The plan is to continue growing my faith-based coaching business through book sales, facilitating workshops, and personalized wellness coaching — primarily through virtual platforms and YouTube.

I am experiencing the longest period in my life of maintaining a checking account in good standing. For the first time, I have built savings exceeding $2,000 and have begun investing in stocks, even on a small scale. I currently maintain two credit cards in good standing — one of which I’ve held for over a year — and my credit score is steadily improving from fair toward good.

The most significant addition to my financial lifestyle is that I now regularly have conversations with my adult daughters about generational wealth, savings, and investing.

Through encouragement, leadership, and consistent coaching, my life is better. I’m grateful to Operation HOPE and Liz Joiner for their investment in me, which has helped place my life on a purposeful path.

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