Meet Tennille Thomas | Positive Change Activist & Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tennille Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tennille, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
AUA started with an overwhelming urge to fill a void. Many have no idea how many families are truly suffering from poverty and can’t afford the simplest of things such as undergarments. Parents are working 2 jobs just to make ends meet and that leaves children unattended. So here at AUA, we have dedicated our time to finding creative ways to interact with the community and work towards a brighter future where well-being and health are at the forefront.

What should our readers know about your business?
AUA was made possible by the entrepreneur that lies within. I have owned and operated J&T Transportation LLC. since 2009. J&T Specializes in Hotshot Delivery. We currently operate all over the United States. In any business, there are ups and downs but it’s all in how you handle them. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to never stop saving for the rainy days as they will surely come. Staying ahead of the downturn is a must. Choosing to step out and rely on yourself is a big decision and should be thought through carefully. Growing a business on your own is definitely not easy. Plenty of times I felt I had surpassed my level of transportation knowledge and didn’t know where to turn. My suggestion to combat this is to find a mentor that has been in the industry longer than you. If they don’t know the answer they can most likely refer you to someone who can.
Knowing when to fold um! Time will often tell if you have chosen the right path and when it’s hurting more than helping, let it go.
The world should know that support of someone’s dream is important. My family is a huge staple in both J&T and AUA operations. I am happy to include my son’s in charitable giving at such a young age but none of that would be possible without the freedom that comes from working for myself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Denver, Colorado is an amazing place to visit especially if you like the outdoors as much as I do. I was born and raised in Texas so the mountainous terrain and occasional waterfalls are a welcomed change of pace.

Day 1
Day trip to Colorado Springs. Garden of the Gods Nature Center.
This is the perfect location for beautiful photo ops and to get acquainted with the local wildlife, and history.
after our day of exploration, we can grab a bite to eat at Paravicini’s an amazing Italian Bistro with great ambiance and no need to dress up.
Day 2
Let’s sleep in and then make a day of the 16th Street Mall. I absolutely love the variety of options in clothing, souvenirs, bars, and food. This is the one-stop shop for a great day without the car.
Day 3
I’m sure we can get into a little water fun kayak included. Water sports can often drain you on holiday so back for a nap to rest up for our fancy dinner. When in the mood for showing off the area and some good food I go for Flagstaff House. This restaurant offers great food options and the opportunity to dress up and get some great pics in a beautiful setting. The view here is breathtaking as it overlooks Boulder.
Day 4
Civic Center Park after Kikes Red Tacos. Who doesn’t love street tacos? This award-winning food truck has some of the best. So I feel like a stroll through the park would be the perfect way to walk off the ponds. Civic Center Park always has something going on and historic statues for photo ops.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
We appreciate each of our volunteers and donors. However, today I’d like to shoutout The Denver Dynasty women’s semi-pro team and their staff for choosing to partner with us this year. During the pandemic, it has proven quite the challenge to get in donations. Owner Be Jones and her team went above and beyond by raising money, volunteering, and planning a community event with the Denver Broncos Boys & Girls Club. This event taught kids basketball techniques and raised community awareness about our services.
Thanks for helping people live better one community at a time.

Website: auacharity.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/auacharity?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalie.t.williams