Today we’d like to introduce you to Krisana Patrick.
Hi Krisana, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I became a teen parent at just 15 years old and grew up without my biological father in the home. As the middle child, I often felt unseen. I struggled academically in school and was placed in support classes, which at the time deeply affected my self-esteem. I acted out sometimes—not because I lacked potential, but because I was trying to hide the shame I felt around academic struggles and fit in with my peers. After high school, I carried my insecurities into adulthood. I struggled with self-love and confidence, which led me into unhealthy relationships. Yet, even during the most uncertain moments of my life, I always felt a strong pull toward something bigger—toward justice, purpose, and giving back to my community. I never gave up on the dream of supporting teen parents and at-risk youth because I understood how challenging that journey can be.
Being a teen parent was incredibly difficult, and much of my support didn’t come from home. I had to find strength within myself and seek community in other places. I learned early on how isolating this experience could be, especially knowing that fewer than half of teen parents graduate from high school, and even fewer continue into higher education. I wanted young people to know that their current situation does not define their destination. I aimed to show them what was possible through encouragement, self-worth, and consistent support.
Years later, after facing many obstacles and experiencing personal growth, everything came full circle. I began to believe in myself in ways that had never been modeled in my family. I broke generational barriers by becoming the first in my family to earn a college degree and, later, a master’s degree. Achieving academic success, after having struggled in school, changed my life; it restored my confidence and ignited a deeper desire to become the example I needed when I was younger. .
This desire led me to found The Hope & Help to Hold On Foundation, Inc. My nonprofit was born from my lived experiences, healing, and purpose. It serves as a space for teen parents and youth to build confidence, gain resources, and rediscover their worth. My journey taught me that transformation begins with belief—belief in oneself, belief in community, and the belief that every young person deserves the chance to rise above their circumstances. Today, my mission is not only to serve my community but to be a part of the healing and hope that changes lives—including my own.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No—it has definitely not been a smooth road. My journey has been full of challenges and moments of deep uncertainty. A major turning point came in 2014 when I made the decision to leave my hometown of Chicago, Illinois, and relocate to Memphis, Tennessee with my two children. That move was an act of faith and survival. It marked the beginning of a season where I chose to pour into myself and my family in ways I never had before. I enrolled at Southwest Tennessee Community College to pursue an associate degree. At that time, I was simply proud to have made it that far—I had never imagined I would truly finish college. Academic success had always felt distant, more like a dream than a reality. However, the faculty and staff believed in me even when I doubted myself. Their encouragement pushed me to apply to a university, and after being accepted, I continued on to earn both my bachelor’s and eventually my master’s degrees.
Behind those accomplishments was an immense amount of struggle. I was raising two children alone while working full-time and attending school in a city where I had no family or support system nearby.
The balancing act was exhausting; financial pressure, emotional fatigue, and fear of failure were constant companions. Many nights, I questioned whether I could really do it. But I refused to give up. I’ve always had a fighting spirit—once I commit to something, I see it through to the end. .
What kept me moving forward was my desire to create a better future for my children and to show them that dreams are achievable, even when the odds feel stacked against you. Walking across that graduation stage remains one of the proudest moments of my life—not just because of the degree, but because it represented the woman I had become. In that moment, I realized that I wasn’t only becoming a role model for the community I serve; I was also becoming a role model for my family. And from that point on, there was no turning back.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I serve as a First Aid and CPR Trainer for Harmony Family Center and the Tennessee Department of Human Services, where I hold the position of West Tennessee Regional Trainer. In this capacity, I train DHS personnel, foster parents, and caregivers, equipping them with the lifesaving skills and confidence needed to respond to emergencies involving children and families. This role is one of my proudest accomplishments because it allows me to work directly with youth, caregivers, and professionals who are on the front lines of care, fulfilling my lifelong passion for helping others. Knowing that my work contributes to safer environments and stronger families provides me with a deep sense of purpose and joy. I am also recognized throughout Memphis, and in my hometown, as a motivational speaker and community advocate. I have partnered with several nonprofit organizations during fundraising events, sharing my story to inspire audiences and raise support for community programs. Beyond the stage, I am consistently active in the community—whether assisting with food and clothing distributions, mentoring young people, or collaborating with the Memphis Public Library through youth outreach workshops. Service is not just something I do occasionally; it is a daily lifestyle rooted in compassion and connection.
One of my proudest achievements is being a mother. I gave birth to my daughter as a teen parent, and she has broken every stereotype associated with that label. She graduated from high school successfully without interruption and is now working in the healthcare field. Watching her grow into a strong, focused young woman is one of the greatest confirmations that perseverance, love, and belief can truly change generational outcomes.
What sets me apart is my lived experience. I don’t just teach resilience—I’ve lived it. My ability to build genuine rapport comes from walking the same paths as the people I serve, allowing me to speak to individuals not from theory, but from truth. I see myself as a chain-breaker, demonstrating that your situation does not define your destination. Statistically, I was not expected to be where I am today, but through faith, discipline, and self-belief, I transformed adversity into victory.
My story is proof that a breakthrough is possible, and this message of hope is what I carry into every room and every life I touch.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was what many people would call a tomboy. I spent a lot of time outside with the neighborhood boys, playing football, climbing trees, and embracing adventure. At the same time, I was also a quiet daydreamer who often preferred my own company, enjoying moments of solitude to get lost in my thoughts. Even as a child, I had a strong sense of justice and a deep desire to do what was right. I remember being recognized several times for my acts of integrity. Once, I found a large sum of money at school and turned it into the staff. As a result, I received a “Do the Right Thing” award and was given a bicycle, and my photo was published in the newspaper. On another occasion, I mediated an argument between two girls at school. I listened to both sides, helped them talk it through, and by the end, they hugged and walked away as friends—a friendship that still exists today.
Personality-wise, I have always been a blend of introvert and extrovert. I could be shy and quiet, perfectly content spending time alone watching television or reflecting. However, I could also step into any crowd and connect easily with others when needed.
I naturally gravitated toward those who were often overlooked—the “misfits”—because I never wanted anyone to feel alone. I made friends across various social groups and tried to create a sense of belonging wherever I could.
In high school, I volunteered in the Excel Room, where students with physical and developmental disabilities spent much of their school day. Instead of going to lunch, I chose to help feed the students or assist staff in any way I could. Even then, serving others felt more fulfilling than sitting at a cafeteria table.
When I reflect on my younger self, I see that my heart for helping people was always present. I believe that pouring into others was my way of healing the parts of myself that needed care, too. Long before I had a title or a career, I was already walking in the purpose of compassion and service that continues to define my life today.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies depending on service type, group size, duration, and location. Inquiries are welcome for customized booking details.
Contact Info:
- Website: thehopeandhelptoholdon.org
- Instagram: @thehopeandhelptoholdon
- Facebook: The Hope & Help to Hold On Foundation Inc
- Other: krisana@thehopeandhelptoholdon.org
