My Life/My Job: Antonio Owens working to effect change through HopeWorks

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Current job: Employed at HopeWorks, Inc. since January 2003. HopeWorks is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving the poor through outreach programs that develop individual worth, encourage personal responsibility and promote the honor and value of hard work.

First job: Merchandise handler at Sears

Career highlights:Traveling to New York City and doing something positive in my place of birth (Memphis) in spite of all the negative stories that come out about it. I will never live anywhere else!

Most satisfying career moment: Helping a young adult who could not read to learn how.

Career advice: Give your employer more than they expect.

Person I most admire: My mom, Minnie Owens. She passed away in 2001, but boy did she ever show me unconditional love.

Hobbies: Reading, exercising and playing basketball.

Last book read: “What Every Church Member Should Know About Poverty” by Ruby Payne, Ph.D., and Bill Ehlig

Favorite film: “Shawshank Redemption”

Favorite vacation spot: Chicago, Ill.

What is something that most people don’t know about you… I am a really good listener and can converse with anyone.