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Steve Crudup hasn't added a story.
Let me say first off that I am embarrassed that I have to do this. Second, if you know me AT ALL, you know that I would not do this if I didn't have to. Third, I don't have an option - so I need to see what I can do to get through this rough spot. I'm going to be blatantly honest about my situation - beyond what I'm even comfortable sharing because I feel I need to share it so you will understand where I'm coming from right now.
Here's my story. I have worked solidly since I was 15 1/2 years old, with exceptions of times I've been enrolled full-time in school or looking for a job right after school. I have worked everything from retail to fast food, always willing to pull up my boot straps - scrimp and save, sell things to pawn, even cash in IRAs to survive and pay bills when I've needed to. I do EVERYTHING in my power not to rely on others for assistance, although I do have a family that is willing to help out when they can.
For those who don't know, I recently left a job that was not a good fit for me personally or professionally. Leaving a job without a job is never a good idea - but I had severe ethical and personal issues with the methodologies used by this company and its leadership. Due to this, I had to make the difficult choice and make a leap of faith. I am applying to jobs daily and waiting to hear back from them.
Something else most of you don't know is that I am tied to the greater Tampa Bay area or nearby due to family issues and obligations. I don't feel comfortable going into detail publicly, but I will say that I personally feel it necessary to be here to provide as much assistance as I can. This is limited my prospects for jobs in this area because there is a finite number of legitimate institutions who have Student Affairs/Student Services to the level I am used to working with and feel comfortable being a part of.
Since leaving my most recent position, they still owe me almost and entire paycheck that I have not been paid and they have been "working on" getting to me for several weeks. Because I can't depend on these funds coming in a timely manner (if ever, it seems), I also attempted to access emergency funds from my retirement accounts but due to recent changes in law accessing these funds would "retire" me and limit my ability to take certain positions. Additionally, since I left my last position, I do not qualify for unemployment assistance. I've been seeking temporary/seasonal and other options for employment while waiting for a full-time position, but time is running out. I am also in need of several medications that I cannot currently afford due to the medical insurance from my last position cutting off. I want to apply for Affordable Healthcare Act coverage, but I do not have the funds available to do so right now.
I am clearly willing and able to do whatever I can, but even if employment came my way tomorrow I would not be able to pay the bills that are due within the next week to two weeks, including rent, utilities, car payment, etc. While I have some funds set aside to do what I can, I clearly do not have the full amounts necessary. As well, while it may seem that I'm "out and about" a lot - I have been doing anything and everything I can that is extremely low cost or free just to try and keep a positive mindset, rather than sitting around becoming depressed and solitary. I've found there is a lot you can do in Tampa, especially Ybor City, when you don't drive and just walk around.
I will also address the issue of the upcoming softball tournament over the Thanksgiving holidays. You will see me posting about this. Well prior to making the decision to leave my most recent job, I paid for the hotel through Priceline on a non-refundable option. My family is also assisting me in paying for other funds associated with this endeavor (gas/food) so that I can try and get some mental release during this difficult time. I don't want anyone to feel that I am wasting money and not willing to work. I hope this is understandable.
Swallowing every last bit of pride I have, I am putting this out to you - friends, colleagues, former staff, extended family. If anyone is willing or able to help me with ANY funds at this point.
Feel free to ask me any questions personally through PM or email at steven.crudup@gmail.com. I would be happy to address them. If you leave me a mailing address, I will gladly ensure that funds you provide me will be returned as soon as I am able to.
Sincerely, Steve
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