PHOTO BY ANN BROOKS / MPW.59 PHOTO BY ANN BROOKS / MPW.59
  • Mother and Mover
  • By Ann Brooks, Freelance
  • The 59th Missouri Photo Workshop / Chillicothe, Mo.
  • Jena Constant, 30, is a third generation Chillicothian and a single mom, who is always on the run with her jobs and civic activities. Jena is the Executive Secretary of Main Street Chillicothe, a program that encourages downtown revitalization. Her job responsibilities incorporate budgeting, accounting, and the coordination of many programs including Chillicothe's famous murals. After working long hours, Jena cares for animals as part of her fledgling pet sitting business. To add to her busy life, two weeks ago Jena and her son, Braden, moved to a new home five miles north on highway State 65.

    Jena lights up as she speaks of Braden. "My world revolves around him and making sure he's OK." Jena has been away to college and lived in Europe. "What keeps me in Chillicothe is bonds to family and having a small community where Braden can feel supported and build confidence as he's growing up."

    Jena Constant begins the day's work before sun-up, snuggling in front of the TV with her son Braden.

  • 1 of 11