2016 Woman of Success Honoree

2016 Woman of Success Honoree

It is an honor to share another accomplishment with all of you. I have been named a 2016 Woman of Success honoree by Lori Pelzer for her annual Girl Go Be Great Women Success Soiree in Columbia, SC. There were 50 women selected around the country, so I’m truly honored that my wins have been regarded as being worthy of recognition. To learn more about Lori and the event itself, follow the link: http://loripelzer.leadpages.co/lori-pelzer/

Blogging for The Glamour Girl Movement Devotionals

Blogging for The Glamour Girl Movement Devotionals

glamour-girl-devotionalsI’m excited to have been asked to participate in the Devotional Series created by Megan Mottley. Megan is the visionary and CEO of The Glamour Girl Movement. The GGM is teaching women the benefits of getting the Ultimate Makeover. The mission is to disciple women and teach women how to disciple others.

Because of my experience and transparency regarding issues surrounding domestic violence, I was asked if I’d be interested in sharing my insights by way of monthly devotionals. There are eleven other amazing women who are contributing writers. Each of them speak in their respective areas of expertise. I am honored to have been asked. It was my pleasure to say yes! My specific devotional is featured today. Please be sure to take a read. I hope you’ll find it helpful. You can always review all of the devotionals by viewing the blog tab on the site. http://theglamourgirlmovement.com/devotions/moving-on-after-the-storm

The Need for Housing for Survivors of Abuse

The Need for Housing for Survivors of Abuse

joyce-at-hard-rockI recently had the privilege of speaking at Hard Rock Cafe in Memphis, TN. It was the location for my dear friend, Gwendolyn Turner’s 1st official fundraiser for her transitional housing facility. The Corinthian Safe House will be a safe haven for women and families fleeing domestic violence. It’s has a tentative date of operation of December, 2016. Gwen asked if I would share a few words about my personal journey and the need for housing for survivors in our community.

It was a great opportunity for me to share about my struggles with solidifying housing for myself and my children when I left my abuser. It’s not easy finding housing, especially when your credit is not that great, resources are limited, transportation is a challenge and you are dealing with the emotional and/or physical trauma of abuse. I was able to share how everything I just mentioned were barriers for me.  I was able to share how those same issues are a constant problem for many of the survivors I’ve spoken to. And, having worked specifically as a Victim Advocate for Shelby Co., I spend a lot of time talking with victims and survivors first hand. Housing was often listed as a top priority. I conducted a survey recently among advocates and survivors of abuse. Housing was the one barrier that was listed as a priority at a rate of 100%.

I am hopeful that Gwen’s date of operation becomes a reality. It looks very promising. It is certainly needed. I will be there for the ribbon cutting. If you’re in the Memphis, TN area, I encourage you to join us. Be on the look out for additional information.