SA man uses non profit to inspire next generation
When Jesus Rendon applied to a college in 2007, his hope for a better future faded with a simple rejection letter.
"It was tough," said Rendon.
He's carried that letter with him ever since.
But it has never carried him.
He did end up going to college.
And years later, he and his wife founded a non profit, called Building A Purpose.
It's gained him National attention, and he's even talked about it on the TED stage.
Now, he's back in the classroom, using that same letter as a springboard to inspire kids.
"My rejection letter was me trying to reach out for this opportunity that was just a little bit out of my grasp," said Rendon.
Building a Purpose is on a mission to get kids connected with mentors in the field of their choice.
"We focus students interest, and we show them this is what it takes to be in this profession by connecting them with a professional in that profession," said Rendon.
It's a program Xochitl Martinez can attest to.
She's the Early College Director at San Antonio High School.
Martinez said kids aren't always sure about what they want to do.
This is a good way to help.
"I've seen a lot of students definitely have more drive, and begin to talk about what they want to do after high school," said Martinez.
"They have so much potential because of the resources and how we connect them," said Rendon.
Now, the kid who turned a college rejection letter into hope is using everything he's learned to inspire others.
"It's empowering, and it's more than I could have ever imagined," said Rendon.
To learn more about Building a Purpose, click here.
