When I saw myself and my children falling through the cracks, I thought it was a fluke. As I began talking to my community sisters and researching, I saw that we're falling through the cracks nationwide. My mission being fulfilled daily means those 15 years weren't wasted. "I want to fill those missing gaps. It's all about true ACCESS."

I want Black women and their children to find support within the community because so often the mainstream fails us. We're told to take whatever we get with a smile - if we have grievances, then we're the angry Black woman. Other women don't have to prove it's real.  "I just want to be able to demonstrate to the broader community that we can support each other - we got us."

This mission is very personal. It's important for me to be part of making this happen for us. There's so many organizations out here, but nothing's out here for us. "My prayer is that Courageous Access becomes a lighthouse of healing for Black women. Black women truly are the cornerstone of the community. When you build up the Black woman, you build up the community."

This mission means a lot to me because I think it's important for our community to know that we can stand together. It's important for people to know that they aren't alone. I want to see Courageous Access continue to create stability in women that will continue throughout generations. "I want Courageous Access tobuild a legacy for many - just like it changed my life."

I am filled with profound emotions of relief, hope, and determination as I step into my role as a Board member. As a co-survivor and survivor of domestic violence myself, the opportunity to give back, extend support, and contribute to the healing journey of others is moving.

Through our collective efforts, we can offer crucial resources. "Together, we can forge a path towards healing, empowerment, and lasting change."

There are not too many people who care the way Courageous Access leadership has shown me that it cares. People don’t move like Courageous Access does, and her kids see her get hurt. People just sweep domestic violence under the rug, or just disregard it. After so many times, neighbors don’t even call the cops. “The more information we’re able to get out there to let people know they don’t have to deal with it on their own? I want to be a part of that.“