Staff
I’m a first-generation American, born in San Francisco, CA, to parents who migrated from the Philippines. As the youngest of eight children, I’ve often been called a 'miracle child' due to a life-threatening experience at age two. Growing up, faith played a central role in our family, and God continues to be a guiding force in my life.
As a young girl, I attended private school for twelve years and was extremely outgoing and competitive in many sports. Shifting gears to adulthood, I have spent many years managing office operations and providing executive-level support.
Over the last thirteen years, I successfully ran a bowling center in Columbus, Ohio, where I oversaw diverse aspects of the business and handled numerous responsibilities.
My personal life is a source of immense joy, especially in raising three incredible adult children. My youngest daughter has further blessed me with a wonderfully talented granddaughter.
I remain very active and full of energy, grateful for each day. I live life to the fullest and never take it for granted. I love the challenge of creating something out of nothing, and nothing brings me more joy than seeing the smiles my creations bring.
Life is truly a gift!
Elaine Obando
Global Won Activity News
Blog Posts On Global Won Partners Activities
Shirley Brooks-Jones, Part 1 of 3 - Copy
Education - Shirley Brooks-Jones, Part 1 of 3
As the eldest of 9 children, you could say Shirley was born into a life of service.
Named after famed child actress, Shirley Temple, our Shirley’s life couldn’t have been further from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, but it is a story that ends on a Broadway stage, involves a prince and a president and countless others around the world.
About Shirley
Shirley Brooks-Jones was born in 1936 in Vinton, County Ohio.
Looking at Shirley today, you might be fooled by her welcoming smile and small stature, but make no mistake, Shirley-Brooks Jones is a force.
In this 3-part series we’ll share her story, a tale that travels the world, involves a prince and a president, a critically acclaimed Broadway play and so much more…but first, back to modest Vinton County where it all started more than nine decades ago.
Humble Beginnings
Born in one of the least populated and poorest parts of the state, money and jobs were scarce.
As the eldest of 9 children, you could say Shirley was born into a life of service. Named after famed child actress, Shirley Temple, our Shirley’s life couldn’t have been farther from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
There weren’t many new toys, if any. There was no eating out. There were no special camps, parties, or vacations. Instead, as the eldest sibling, Shirley worked hard helping her parents take care of her 4 brothers and 4 sisters. As you can imagine, there was no shortage of cooking, cleaning, and ironing.
Today, Shirley will tell you her favorite food is whatever’s put in front of her, a response that, no doubt, stems from her early years.
At four years old, Shirley’s parents moved to Columbus, Ohio for work. As the state’s capital, Columbus was a lot larger than Shirley’s hometown. It even had its own movie theater!
As long as Shirley took her brother, she was permitted to go to the movies on Saturday afternoons. The Garden Theater became a highlight of Shirley’s formative years. For 3 cents, movie-goers were treated to previews, 2 full length movies, world news, and an episode from exciting programs like Tarzan or Mummy. It was a time of respite for a child, who at such a young age, was already living a life of service.
Next up: Shirley's Story Continues—In Part 2, we’ll discover how Shirley’s childhood work ethic and service to family transformed into a life of service to countless others all around the world!
Copyright Global Won 2024 | Privacy