Change It Up

Starting Up Solo

Jackie Silverman, 56, was in charge of a geriatric program for a social service agency—leaving her with health problems and a depression battle—before she became the founder and former executive director of New Orleans Women's Shelter.

Silverman's Advice: Everyone has the potential to achieve something great. "I always thought that extraordinary things were accomplished by extraordinary people," Jackie says. "Now I know that they're accomplished by ordinary people who've stepped up." Keep going, she says. "When the naysayers tell you it can't be done, just smile and work harder."