Resiliency Moving Beyond the Baggage: Women of Color Empowerment Conference

Come out and meet Dr. Jacquelyn Wilson, Surprise The Struggling, Inc. Executive Director, at this year’s Women of Color Empowerment Conference at Rawson Elementary School. 260 Holcomb Street, Hartford, Connecticut 06112 1PM-6PM November 4, 2017.

There will be a live panel featuring Entrepreneurial women from different backgrounds, who are all making a difference and giving back to their communities in various ways.

Resiliency Moving Beyond the Baggage: Women of Color Empowerment Conference

Celebrating Women’s History Month…Nichole Bailey!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

Bonus! We have a few more ladies we want to acknowledge this March, as we are celebrating Women’s History Month. #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirty-second highlight this month is the encouraging and inspirational Nichole Bailey—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s benevolent and kindhearted supporter and Ambassador with a heart of gold. Nichole has lent of voice and given her support to our organization in so many ways. The love in her heart for what we are doing is just a testament to her faith, who she is, and what she believes.

When you are beginning a business, organization, or a job, you have a burning in your heart and spirit to do something in a way that no one else has. It is imperative to have a level of faith and a circle of support and encouragement that are not afraid to lift you up and pray for you and your success from a clear and pure heart—no strings attached.

Nichole Bailey, Change Agent, Bits of Faith

Nichole has given this to us. Her words and support have encouraged us and enabled us to push through any negativity and doubtful times. To know, that someone we had just met would go so far to be of help and assistance to us, means more to us and our organization than she will ever know.

#STSGlobal is not just an organization but also a family. We are a family that cares about our staff, volunteers, and Ambassadors, and our consumers. It is important to us always to represent our faith and to convey that hope to those we meet. When we think of Nichole, she embodies this same principles and beliefs. She is a reflection of our mission and is not afraid to meet the people where they are at, and not only meet their physical needs but also their spiritual needs.

We are profoundly grateful to Nichole for choosing to be a part of the #STSGlobal family. To assist, encourage, and support in so many different ways. Her spirit shines brightly and her legacy that she is creating is phenomenal. She is blessed, and we are profoundly blessed for knowing her.

Nichole Bailey—Wife, Mother, Change Agent, Motivator, Writer, Server—is the founder and creator of Bits of Faith, a place where positive affirmations serve as a catalyst for your growth and healing. Bits of Faith provide its visitors and readers with a regimen of inspiration, motivation, and encouragement. Visit the website to learn more,  http://bitsoffaith.net/ Follow on FB and IG,  https://www.facebook.com/Bits-Of-Faith-778903188893879/  https://www.instagram.com/bitsoffaith1/

We salute you, Nichole Bailey! Thank you for being a constant source of encouragement and a reminder to have faith! We stand with a heart full of love and gratitude, having you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!

Celebrating Women’s History Month…Jacqueline Rowe!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

Our celebration of Women’s History Month continues! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twenty-fifth highlight this month is the effervescent and uncompromising Jacqueline Rowe—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s example of what it means to live the words you speak. #STSGlobal is honored to have met and get to know the awesome woman who has touched and changed many lives.

Jacqueline is the woman behind the scenes as well as out in front, who is doing her part to make a difference in the lives of others; encouraging people to share their truths and face their fears and pain head on. She embodies the spirit of the #STSGlobal mission—to meet people where they’re at…period! Jacqueline helps individuals to move forward and stand up for themselves; taking the steps that they need to get to the life that they were meant to have.

Jacqueline Rowe, CEO, Author, Motivational Speaker, Founder of FACE MY ABUSE

When we meet people, we do not always know their story. We may have heard things, seen things, but rarely do we know the story behind what makes a person who they are. What drives them to fight? What motivates them to take on the tasks that they do? If you have the pleasure of meeting Jacqueline, it will become evident that what drives her to fight; what motivates her, is a heart of love. She carries a spirit of love that is immediately felt when you come in her presence. That desire to help, lift up, motivate people to live their best life is evident after spending time in her presence. When she speaks, she speaks with conviction from a place of experience. You know that she has been through something in her life, but unlike some, has managed to grow from and overcome her experiences.

Jacqueline is now in a place where she can teach and reach others to achieve the same clarity and power that she now lives and operates. She is creating a legacy that her children, family, friends, and even strangers can glean from for years to come. A legacy tried in the fire and made stronger for it.

Jacqueline Rowe—Mother, Broker, Deal Maker, P R Consultant, Lifestyle Marketer, Author, Life Coach, Empowerment Speaker, Domestic Violence Advocate, Philanthropist—is the founder of FACE MY ABUSE. “FMA” founded in 2006, is established to address domestic violence against women and girls by increasing awareness, promoting effective policies and implementing potent strategies for prevention and intervention. “FMA’s” mission is to advance the health, education, and security of women and girls the world over with a focus on building healthy sustainable relationships defying domestic violence and its impact on not only the victim but by extension the family as a whole transcending the community.

Jacqueline shares with victims, the tools necessary to develop the confidence needed in acknowledging their worth, building self-confidence, and exhibiting the life intended. To promote reach, she incorporates third party resources geared towards demonstrating alternatives and providing positive influences. To learn more about FACE MY ABUSE and Jacqueline Rowe, visit the following links, https://facemyabuse.wordpress.com/, https://www.facebook.com/jacqueline.rowe/  https://www.facebook.com/thejrenterprises/ and https://www.instagram.com/facemyabuse/

We salute you, Jacqueline Rowe! Your encompassing love, concern, spirit, and heart inspire us every day. We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!

Celebrating Women’s History Month…Dawana Smith!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

We are continuing to celebrate Women’s History Month! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twentieth highlight this month is the phenomenal and incomparable Dawana Smith—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporter and valuable member of the team. Dawana is instrumental is promoting #STSGlobal’s mission and procuring opportunities to bring awareness and generate funds for our organization.

As one of our first team members, Dawana took the initiative to expand our “Sip & Drop/Purses & Pearls” Fundraisers by hosting an event in North Carolina. Due to its success, Ambassadors from other states outside the tristate area began hosting events, as well, increasing our global reach and expanding our number of Ambassadors.

Dawana Smith, Team Member, Chief Ambassador at #STSGlobal

Dawana is a team player who has shown her dedication and love to the mission of #SurpriseTheStruggling and continues to assist our Director and staff in any capacity needed. Her devotion, determination, drive, and representation of #STSGlobal has made her an indispensable and invaluable part of the team. We are grateful and humbled to work with Dawana.

Dawana Smith—Mother, Sister, Friend, Team Captain, Ambassador, Supporter—is a devoted part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling family. In addition to the work that she does for #STSGlobal, Dawana works full time and supports various other organizations, while raising a family. Dawana is creating a legacy that her family can be proud of.

We are profoundly grateful that Dawana finds time to be a part of #STSGlobal considering her busy work schedule and ethic. She has proven to be a woman that is determined, loyal, and inventive. We could not ask for a better representative of our organization and mission. Dawana is also an integral part of the success, and continued initiative of our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project. Please be sure to follow Dawana on FB:  https://www.facebook.com/dsstanley and IG:  https://www.instagram.com/soreal75

Get to know the Queen whose dedication and loyalty are above reproach. We salute you, Dawana Smith! Your love and support inspire us. Because of you, we are! We are profoundly blessed to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!

Celebrating Women’s History Month…Tiffany Robertson!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

We are continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s eighteenth highlight this month is the game changing and motivational Tiffany Robertson—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s compassionate, sincere filled supporter and champion. From the very first time we met Tiffany, it was evident that she possessed a heart filled with compassion and understanding, and a desire to make a change in the lives of others.

There are many times we meet people who will say one thing but mean something else. That is not the case with Tiffany. Her character is above reproach, and that is the kind of person that you want to be connected to. Tiffany embodies the spirit and mission of #STSGlobal. Her desire to make a difference, and to give, children especially, another chance to make their mark in this world is admirable.

Tiffany Robertson CEO & Founder of C.H.A.N.C.E.S and Founder of I Am Really D.O.P.E

Tiffany has exhibited an open heart and open mind when it comes to her support of #SurpriseTheStruggling and our mission to reach and touch as many lives as possible. We are grateful to have crossed paths with the dynamic woman who is creating a blazing trail of success and changes in the lives of children; enabling them to have a fighting chance and opportunity to become anything and all that they can be.

Tiffany Robertson—Educator, Motivator, Inspiration, CEO, Scholar—is CEO and Founder of C.H.A.N.C.E.S (Children Have A New Concept of Education & Success). C.H.A.N.C.E.S Inc. was created with the theory that “it takes a village to raise a child”. Ms. Robertson spent years of researching various career fields so she could provide expertise advice to students about the right career path for their future. She partners with various organizations, schools, and community leaders to continue the mission of inspiring the youth so they can maximize their full potential of being whoever they want to be with the proper tools, education, and guidance to conquer the world of being Today’s Success Stories. FB: http://bit.ly/CHANCESINC

Tiffany is also the founder of, I AM REALLY D.O.P.E. DOPE is an acronym for Determined, Outstanding, Powerfully Empowered. DOPE is an empowerment organization to encourage and empower women not to allow fear keeps them from maximizing their life. FB: http://bit.ly/IAMREALLYDOPE

We encourage you to get to know the DOPE Tiffany Robertson who is not afraid to take CHANCES. Be inspired and motivated by her passion and drive. We salute you, Tiffany Robertson! You inspire us to move without fear! We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!

Celebrating Women’s History Month…Shawn Headley!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

In continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s seventeenth highlight this month is the incredible and invaluable Shawn Headley—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s reason for being able to do what we do legally! We owe a profound debt of gratitude to Shawn for taking us under her wing and offering her wisdom and direction when we decided to take our vision and make it official. She mentored us through the entire process of bringing our vision to fruition; making the entire process of becoming an official nonprofit 501 c 3 organization much easier. She understood the mission of #STSGlobal and determined that she could help us take our vision further.

When you are starting out, Shawn is the person that you want on your side. Her selflessness and determination to help others attain the goals they have set for themselves and others are what set Shawn apart from so many others. Shawn’s dedication to her clients and passion for what she does inspires us to do all that we can to give back and to pay all the kindness and love she has shown us, forward.

Shawn Headley Ceo & Founder of Each One Teach One Mentoring Services Inc.

Shawn’s compassion is contagious. Her support of #SupriseTheStruggling has made her an integral part of our continued success. Her example of dedication and professionalism has given us a standard we hope we are reflecting in our services.

Shawn Headley—CEO, Director, Mentor, Consultant, Game-changer, Life-Influencer—is the CEO and Founder of  Each one Teach one Mentoring Service Inc., Director/Provider at Happy Hearts Daycare and Aftercare program and Executive director at A Stairway To Hope Children & Family Services Inc.

Each One Teach One began with a vision in 2013 to help givers in the nonprofit industry achieve what they deserve. EOTO takes all the guesswork out of getting started. Through a variety of services, EOTO will help from the beginning stages all the way to running and maintaining a nonprofit like a pro; working through all federal and state paperwork, and offering a NonProfit 101 class that will further one’s vision in a nonprofit world. http://eachoneteachonementoring.com

We encourage you to get to know more about the awesome woman that is creating an unforgettable and powerful legacy to last several lifetimes. Follow her social media pages on Facebook: http://bit.ly/EOTOMentoringServicesInc and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eachone_teach1/ (@eachone_teach1), Be certain to check out:  http://www.astairwaytohope.org/ Inquire about how you can become involved or donate.

Bar-none; Shawn is someone you want to get to know. Be inspired and motivated by her passion and dedication to make positive changes in the lives of others. We salute you, Shawn Headley! You show us every day what sincere dedication and concern look like. We are grateful to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!

Celebrating Women’s History Month…LaTonya Smiley!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

We are continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month. #SurpriseTheStruggling’s fifteenth highlight this month is the courageous and inspirational LaTonya Smiley—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s passionate supporter who has managed to touch our hearts through her words, her testimony, and her devotion to healing the hurts of other women. LaTonya embodies the heart and soul of #STSGlobal mission. She has inspired us with her support, love, and commitment to making a positive change.

There are times in life when you meet or learn about someone and because of it, your life will never be the same because you have learned and gained something special from their story. You know that you will not see the world the same way or be able to do things the same but instead, you are inspired to do more. That is exactly what LaTonya brings to the #STS organization. You cannot hear her story, see her commitment, and not be affected to do something.

LaTonya Smiley, CEO, and Founder of Eve’s Roses

We are grateful to LaTonya for walking in her greatness. Because she has boldly gone forth and has shared herself, it inspires and encourages us to continue to do the same. It encourages us to see deeper and to look closer at the women and teen girls that we seek to surprise each day. We all have a story, but many of us are afraid to share it. We thank LaTonya for having the courage to share hers but also to encourage others to do the same.

LaTonya Smiley—Advocate, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach, Author, Ambassador—is the CEO and Founder of Eve’s Roses. Eve’s Roses, a New York based Nonprofit Organization committed to providing Mentoring services for Victims and Survivors of Incest and domestic Violence. Their mission is to empower victims to end the silence with the reassurance of support; to empower women by pushing the message that, “Your Past DOES NOT define your future.”

LaTonya worked as an NYC Paramedic for almost ten years. During her time in the field, she received many lifesaving awards and six FDNY commendations. After interacting with all types of people as she administered medical treatment she discovered that the underlying cause of physical and mental diseases that she treated was a childhood hurt. Being an overcomer of incest and domestic violence, she knew that she had to do something to help those who were dying in silence from their horrific secrets.

We encourage you to learn more about the phenomenal LaTonya Smiley, and her organization, Eve’s Roses, http://2liveunbroken.com/ Follow her on IG @evesroses

Be inspired by this dedicated and motivational woman. We salute you, LaTonya Smiley! You inspire us every day. We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!

Celebrating Women’s History Month…Chandra Heath!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

We are celebrating Women’s History Month! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirteenth highlight this month is the illustrious and inspiring Chandra Heath—another one of #SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporters. In fact, Chandra has been a supporter since the inception of our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®. She has been an avid supporter and friend of both organizations, giving selflessly of herself and making her an invaluable part of #STSGlobal success.

Ms. Chandra has been a great asset to #SurpriseTheStruggling; being an example of leadership in business and how to become an organization that sets its standards high for everyone involved. In addition to being a great supporter and embodiment of #STS mission, Ms. Chandra has been a wealth of knowledge, giving selflessly of herself.

Chandra Heath Businessperson Heath Tax Services 20 Years in Business

When thinking of women in history, Ms. Chandra is the kind of woman that comes to mind. It is not her business acumen—though it is stellar—but her thoughtfulness and kind heart and generosity that leaves such an indelible mark. It is her love of family and friends. Often times we hear, to know who a person is, then look at the friends in which they surround themselves. There is a constant stream of family and friends surrounding Ms. Chandra. They know as we know at #STS, it is the love and kindness and authenticity to she exudes that draws others in. It is inspiring.

Chandra Heath—Supporter, Friend, Champion, Businesswoman—is the owner of Heath Tax Services in Staten Island, New York. In business for more than 20 years with over 30 years of experience, Heath Tax Services was started in 1991 by Ronnie and Chandra Heath and quickly became one of the leading tax preparation firms in the area. Since then, they have expanded their services from just personal income tax preparation to include a range of financial and insurance services for both individuals and businesses.

They are committed to providing excellent service to their clients and feel it is extremely important to continuously educate and improve their professional expertise. They employ a staff that is actively involved in professional associations such as the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP), American Payroll Association (APA), Independent Payroll Providers Associations (IPPA), National Association of Insurance, and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). They are also members of the New York and New Jersey chambers of commerce.

They have earned a reputation as a Tax Service company that combines high-quality service and customer satisfaction to meet individual needs. When you look to HeathTax of Staten Island NY to take care of your Tax Service needs, you can rest assured knowing that they are trusted professionals in the industry with many years of experience serving various customers in Staten Island, Richmond County, and the Tri-State area. www.heathtax.com FB https://www.facebook.com/Heathtax/ T @heathtax

We encourage you to get to know this inspiring woman of integrity. Be inspired by devotion and dedication. We salute you, Chandra Heath! We are inspired by your service and commitment. We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!

Celebrating Women’s History Month…Lisa Sumpter

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

Continuing our celebration of  Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s second highlight this month is the audacious and awe-inspiring, Lisa Sumpter—#STSGlobal Ambassador for Philadelphia, PA. Our dear sister has been a shining example of sisterhood and bringing a great service and dedication to #SupriseTheStruggling in so many different ways. We do not believe that there are enough words to adequately express just how honored we are to have Lisa be a part of #STS. Whenever called on to assist or to be a part of an event—if available, she is there, and if she cannot physically be present, she is sending support in various other ways. Because of her love, dedication, drive, and willingness to go above and beyond, we recognize Lisa Sumpter this Women’s History Month, as a woman who is making a change in her community, her city, her state, globally, and most importantly, in the lives of her family and friends, and women and ten girls she may never lay eyes on.

Lisa Sumpter, Sister Prison Wives Best Friends & Families

Lisa wears many hats; host, humanitarian, a people connector, and in public relations—just to name a few. Working alongside her sister, Lisa is the co-founder of Sister Prison Wives, Best Friends & Families (SPWBFF), a 501(c) 3 Non-Profit Community Organization Supporting Children & Families of the Incarcerated. www.spw-bff.org. SPWBFF’s mission is to provide and promote education and awareness of the impact of incarceration on children and families. SPWBFF is a movement to identify and support the needs of affected children and families and assist returning citizens with re-entry into society. In addition to the wonderful work that Lisa does with SPWBFF, Lisa has a degree in Communications and a Masters in Education. She is also a PA Mobile Notary Public, PA Licensed Real Estate Agent and part a family travel agency—Robinson’s Travel.

We encourage you to get to know the dynamic woman who is making history every day through her work, service, support, and family. We salute you, Lisa Sumpter! We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!