Motivational speaker to inspire U-46 middle school students

Roy Juarez Jr. never gave up his dreams despite being homeless at age 14 on the streets of San Antonio with his 9-year-old sister and 2-year-old brother.

"I snuck into a hotel as a homeless teenager to steal a free meal when I heard a motivational speaker. It inspired me to not give up on life and understand that my life had value," Juarez says in a YouTube video.

Juarez went on to earn a business degree from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas.

Today, Juarez, of San Antonio, is a motivational speaker who will share his story of hope, perseverance, forgiveness and the importance of education with students Monday at Ellis and Larsen middle schools in Elgin. He will speak about his life experiences and deliver a message about positive life choices and never giving up on academic dreams.

Since 2010, Juarez has shared this message to more than 350,000 students, parents and educators in 45 states and abroad. His mission is inspiring and creating a positive impact on youth, families and educators across the country through leadership programs, workshops and keynote speakers. For details, check out his website, homelessbychoice.com.

"Never stop dreaming and never stop chasing after those dreams because that future belongs to you," Juarez says in the video. "We all have a story. Whatever your story is don't give your future away because of it."

His talks are from 9 to 10:33 a.m. at Ellis Middle School, 225 S. Liberty St., and 1:48 to 2:33 p.m. at Larsen Middle School, 665 Dundee Ave.

The presentation is sponsored by the Coalition for a Safe and Healthy Elgin. The coalition's mission is promoting a safe and healthy community free of violence and substance abuse through education, prevention and action.