What "Poor" Really Means

As a kid, my family didn't have money for Christmas presents. My mom would try to hold down a job for a few months out of the year, but it usually didn't last long. I don't remember getting many presents, but I still remember tax time. For my little brother and me, it was almost like Christmas. Because of the Earned Income Tax Credit, it was the only time of year we didn't have to worry about money. One year, I even got a basketball kit. I set up the hoop and started dribbling the ball as soon as I got my hands on it. 

A lot has changed since then. But even now, as a manager at my company, tax time stands out in my mind. I thought my employees made a decent wage and could support their families. But now I realize it's really hard for some of them. They say, “I can't wait until tax time.” A lot of them work paycheck to paycheck. After they receive the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Child Tax Credit, they can catch up. They can finally fix their car or their broken washing machine and get a sense of relief. I've learned that just because somebody has a job, doesn't mean that they don't struggle. 

I joined RESULTS in February of this year because I'm trying to make an impact. I want to help people understand what “poor” really means. I know from my experiences growing up that it isn't easy.

It's time for me to give back. And what better way than raising my voice with RESULTS? I'm coming to the RESULTS Conference to share my story and make sure everyone in this country has the chance to thrive. 

I hope you will join me in July.

Andy Trujillo is a RESULTS volunteer in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He will share his personal experiences living in poverty and his passion for advocacy during the “Learning from the True Experts: Wisdom from Those with Firsthand Experience of Poverty” panel at the RESULTS International Conference. RESULTS works with leaders like Andy at the RESULTS Conference and throughout the year. Contact Meredith Dodson ([email protected]) to learn more.