December 9, 2017, New York—Surprise The Struggling was the honored recipient of over fifty Blessings Bags that was raised during a recent fundraiser.
Poyed By Velvette
Poyed By Velvette’s, B2BAB quarterly fundraiser chose Surprise The Struggling for its winter fundraising initiative. Over forty women pledged to donate, purchase products, and raise funds to fill fifty large bags with items to help aid #STS mission in helping homeless women and teen girls globally. Among the many items donated to fill each bag was an array of toiletries, including items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary and feminine products, lotions, soaps, body washes, socks, hair grooming and shaving kits, makeup bags, slippers, water, protein bars, detergent, flashlights, and a host of other items that would help those in need.
Blessed 2 Be A Blessing
Blessed to Be a Blessing “B2BAB” is a series of quarterly fundraiser initiatives by Poyed By Velvette, that support various causes by raising funds, collecting donated items and bringing awareness to issues that impact young girls, teenage girls, and women living in our communities.
The fifty bags donated to Surprise The Struggling enabled the organization to reach more homeless women and teen girls this Holiday season than anticipated. Immediately, #STS was able to reach out to some women in need, earlier than expected this Holiday season, due to the dedicated and philanthropic endeavors of Poyed by Velvette’s B2BAB initiative.
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
Bonus! We have a few more women we want to acknowledge this March! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirty-third highlight this month is the invaluable and dedicated Vanessa E-El—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s friend, supporter and event strategist for our yearly Gift-Giving Extravaganza. We are no stranger to Vanessa and her dedication to the support of local organizations and businesses. We were fortunate to team up with this beautiful soul on many different occasions, including our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®.
Vanessa has long had the reputation for stellar and unparalleled business acumen. Her work ethics and sincerity while working with clients have set her apart, raising the bar for many others in Project Management and Events. We are grateful that we have had the opportunity to work with Vanessa and to also have her represent who we are as an organization.
Vanessa E-El, The Event Strategist
It is important to #STSGlobal to meet the needs of the people where they are…period. Often times, success will blind us and make us forget about the struggles that others may be experiencing. So it is paramount that those who work with us, volunteer and represent us as Ambassadors, are of the same mind when it comes to our goals, vision, and mission. Vanessa not only understands who we are and what we want as an organization and a brand. She embodies the mission and spirit of #STSGlobal wholeheartedly.
We are profoundly grateful to all that Vanessa has shared with us over the years. Her organization skills, her people skills, her dedication and commitment to seeing a job through and to her clients, and whom she represents, have forever endeared Vanessa to our hearts.
Vanessa E-El—Friend, Consummate Professional, Event Strategist, Project Manager—is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) known as The Event Strategist. She is an expert in event and project management, with over 20 years of experience. She has managed hundreds of corporate, nonprofit, and social events both in the U.S. and abroad. Vanessa excels as an independent onsite event planner for meetings, trade shows, and conferences for major corporations such as S&P Global, Oracle, Bloomberg, and JP Morgan. After years of honing her skills, she received her CMP designation in 2010. Vanessa brings her flair for cultivating strategic alliances, brainstorming, creative resourcing, and expert event logistics to every client in order to make dreams happen. Connect with Vanessa https://www.facebook.com/VanessaTheEventStrategist
We salute you, Vanessa E-El! Thank you for being a dedicated friend and supporter throughout the years! We stand with a grateful heart, having you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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!
Continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirty-first highlight this month is the courageous and inspiring Nicole DeRosa aka Cakes by Coley—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporter, and friend, and our very own Cake Genius! Nicole has been a supporter beginning with our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®. Even through difficult times, Nicole has been a constant support to our organization. Her dedication and courage to continue to push past every obstacle in her path have inspired us.
We believe that you are a reflection of those you surround yourself. It is an honor to know and be friends with Nicole. Her strength is an encouragement never to give up on your dreams and your passion. Her courage in the face of adversity reminds us that not every day will be the greatest but if you are willing to push ahead, you will get to where you want and need to be.
Nicole DeRosa, Cakes by Coley, Cake Artist
Nicole embodies the essence and heart of the #STSGlobal mission. Her support and friendship have been invaluable to both of our organizations. We honor her today as a woman making history because she is creating a legacy that goes beyond beautiful and delicious cakes. (Believe us, her cakes are divine and her decorating skills above par!) A legacy comprised of her determination, strength, and courage. Nicole could have given up after two devastating losses and setbacks but she moved forward, even though it seemed impossible. Her determination is infectious and her heart and compassion are awe—inspiring.
We are so grateful to have met this beautiful woman and have the opportunity to be inspired by her story. Nicole’s character speaks for itself. Her workmanship, artistry, and work ethic are evident in every cake she creates, and every interaction she has with a longtime customer or someone new. You will always receive the best.
Experience the passion and love that Nicole pours into her work. Become acquainted with Cakes by Coley, and you will understand the woman and heart behind the brand and taste the love in every bite.
Nicole “Coley” DeRosa—Survivor, Fighter, Entrepreneur, Businesswoman, Cake Artist, Baker Extraordinaire, Champion—is the proud owner and creator of Cakes by Coley LLC, a custom cake company located in Brooklyn, NY, specializing in amazing, delicious and one-of-a-kind creations for any and every occasion. Their mission is to provide beautiful works of edible art that are just as tasty as they are breathtaking. They pride themselves on providing outstanding service, focusing on superb attention to detail, and practicing expert artisanship with every one of their creations, no matter the size or price. They work hard continuously to exceed the expectations of all of their customers.
We salute you, Nicole “Coley” DeRosa! Thank you for being an example of strength, courage, and example of how to overcome obstacles with grace! You inspire us every single day! We stand with a heart full of love and happiness, proud to have you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling and The Stop Bullying Project® Family!
Our celebration of Women’s History Month continues! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twenty-third highlight this month is the incomparable and awe-inspiring Sabine Barreau—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s friend, supporter, and inspiration. #STSGlobal had the profound opportunity and privilege to meet this angel of a woman last year at an event. In the company of many other inspiring and beautiful women, we were struck by the glow that surrounded Sabine and just seems to emanate from her being.
Have you ever been in someone’s presence and felt empowered and encouraged at the same time? That was how we felt in the presence of Sabine. It became evident that this woman was genuine, real, and had a testimony to share. It was all over her. It was not her physical beauty, her make-up, her clothes. It was her spirit; the light of God shining inside of her—bursting with energy and love and power.
Sabine Barreau, Founder, and President of Dynamic Women Of Faith and Purpose, INC.
In the course of doing the work that we do, we come across many different women and girls from all kinds of backgrounds and walks of life. Their stories are all unique and yet similar at the same time. And the one common thread is that these women and girls have not given up. They are fighting; fighting for life, love, and happiness. No matter what comes their way, they are fighting. Part of #STSGlobal mission is to encourage and inspire and to meet other women that we can connect with who share our mission and are willing to become a part of the #STSGlobal family and share in our mission to inspire, encourage, and change lives one at a time, meeting the people right where they are at.
Sabine is this kind of woman. The kind of woman you want to surround yourself with. Who has been through some fires and challenges in life, but continues to push forward and use her voice and her testimony to bring encouragement, inspiration, and enlightenment to those who may feel their paths are too dark, and cannot distinguish the light.
Sabine is that light that God is using. It has been a pleasure in meeting and connecting with such a beautiful soul. She is a woman making history; creating a legacy her family, children, friends, and strangers can glean faith and hope.
Sabine Barreau—Wife, Mother, Sister, Daughter, Minister, Cancer-Survivor, Champion—is a woman of faith who took life’s challenges and placed them in God’s hands, trusting Him to give her a clear path and direction of how to move forward. Finding herself battling for her life, from her ashes were birthed a beautiful testimony and organization. Sabine is proud founder & President of Dynamic Women Of Faith And Purpose, Inc. She is a walking testimony of what God will do in your life when you allow Him into those broken places of your life.
Dynamic Women Of Faith And Purpose, Inc. desires to ensure that women from different walks of life reach their full potential in Christ. It is to encourage, educate, and empower women on the importance of living pure, and takes their rightful place in God, identifying their purpose, acknowledging God with a praise and evolving into a beautiful woman of God with style. DWOFAP will motivate and empower women to become all that God has called them to be. FB: https://www.facebook.com/pg/dynamicwomenoffaithandpupose
We salute you, Sabine Barreau! Your life, determination, and dedication inspire us never to give up. Thank you, for fighting to win. We are humbly blessed to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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!
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
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!
Continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s fourteenth highlight this month is the incomparable and audacious Monique Denton-Davis—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s “C.A.K.E Crusader” who has brought nothing but love, inspiration, opportunity, and sisterhood to #STSGlobal. From the very moment that our paths crossed, it has been inspiration upon inspiration upon inspiration.
Monique encompasses this loving and passionate view about life and women and uplifting others to a whole other level they may have never seen before. She is that coach that you want in the bottom of the fourth quarter when you are down by ten points and need that extra push to pull out the victory. With Monique on your side, you will not only win but also make sure your entire team gets their accolades.
Monique Denton Davis Career & Life Coach Embrace Your CAKE™
At the core mission of #SurpriseTheStruggling is to remind those in the struggle that they can and will make it through whatever situation they are facing. Monique embodies the spirit and mission of #STSGlobal. Her dedication and support of our organization and mission are far beyond a passing glance or a few words here and there. No. Monique is a diehard supporter who has been a champion of the #STSGlobal mission to not only aid homeless women and teen girls but also to inspire them to not only pursue their heart’s desires but to believe that everything they need is within them. We are exceptionally blessed to have Monique be a part of and be supportive of our mission and goals. She has become an invaluable and irreplaceable partner of #STSGlobal.
Monique Denton-Davis—Life and Career Coach, Public Speaker, Champion, Trailblazer, Businesswoman—is the Founder & CEO of Embrace Your CAKE™ (Confidence, Attitude, Kindness, and Excellence) Career Coaching. She is also a dedicated Director, Trainer, and Recruiter who has worked for both corporate and nonprofit organizations. Monique’s number one mission is to motivate women in all lifestyles, encouraging them to Embrace their C.A.K.E. and break through any obstacle with an unwavering sense of confidence. Nothing makes her happier than seeing people win and live the fulfilling life that they have always deserved.
When you are not certain about what step to take next, Monique is the one you want on your side guiding you and coaching you to become that you that is already residing within. Her passion, dedication, and years of experience with enable you to begin living the life you thought was not possible. Let her coach and help you recognize what is already waiting inside of you to be released.
Be certain to visit https://www.embraceyourcake.com to learn more about Monique Denton-Davis and Embrace Your CAKE™. Follow her social media pages on FB and IG @embraceyourcake.
We encourage you to get to know this game-changer and life-affirming woman of valor. Be inspired by her mission. We salute you, Monique Denton-Davis! We are inspired each day by your passion. We are blessed to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
