Sharing My Story

I've been asked by many to share my story unfiltered and I am happy to share it with all of you. The summary of who I am and my goal in life is simple: Never give up on Moving Opportunity Forward.

When I entered my 20's ten years ago; I attended a college in Virginia 8.5 hours away from home, where I was free to make my own mistakes (like spend all of my savings on things young people do). I've had a lot of fun no doubt. But then came the time when I had too much fun and stopped going to school. After I realized what was done; it was already too late.  I spent the remainder of my days in Virginia looking for work so I could finish school.

In Sept. 2007, I had no other option but to move back home with my parents. Once I moved back to Ohio, I again, spent the majority of my time looking for work.

Because I couldn't find anything for several months; I decided to ask the new Mayor for a job. He told me that the city didn't have anything available and that's when I asked if I could work for free. After he said, yes, it was at that point that I found my second chance and created the first Mayoral Internship Program for the City of Mansfield. Also and later that year, I spent time in Washington working with Senator Sherrod Brown.

After my internship with Sen. Brown and with the Mayor’s Office; I was hired as a Legislative Aide with the Ohio House of Representatives. After my job with the House, I finished college and went on to become a teacher and to earn my Masters.

People often ask why I work so much. It's because at a few points in my life, I nearly lost everything that I loved; many things that I worked hard to earn. But more importantly, I work hard because I love what I do and want to make sure that I am getting results on behalf of the people of this great city.

Today, as Councilman At-Large; one of my greatest priorities is focused on our young people and helping to show that with determination, consistency and hard work; anything is possible.  As long as I am Councilman, I will go out there and pursue opportunities not only for our young people but for all Mansfielders. 

My campaign slogan: Moving Opportunity Forward began on day one when I took office. Since taking office 4-months ago; here are few items on what I've done thus far:

• I’ve created the first-ever Mansfield City Council Internship Program in partnership with OSU and NCSC. 

• As chairman of the public Safety Committee, I've strongly advocated for and participated in the formation of the Mend Mansfield Coalition.

• As chairman of the Airport Committee, I've begun advocacy and the pursuit for several major logistics and transportation companies. Should the people elect me on Tuesday; I will move forward toward a proposal that would enable these companies to utilize Mansfield Lahm Airport. This opportunity could significantly increase business operations in the City of Mansfield. 

As I begin GOTV operations; I am sending my final invitation to all of you to join me in these last few days. Help make phone calls, knock on doors with me; help me get people out to vote on Tuesday.

In closing  and as I approach my 30th birthday on Monday; the mistakes I made when I entered my 20’s were actually God’s way of telling me to have faith in the Lord, all things are possible. 

I truly believe that with passion, vision and with prayer; together in partnership with the people, we will MOVE OPPORTUNITY FORWARD throughout Mansfield.  


-Don

#MovingOpportunityForward 
#AmericanDream
#NeverGiveUp 
#UnityOverDivision 

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