WINGS Honors 13 Survivor Graduates at Celebration of Courage

Singer Jonelle Tate performing at the Celebration of Courage.

Recently, WINGS honored 13 Survivor graduates and their children at the agency’s Celebration of Courage virtual event. Graduates shared inspirational messages and WINGS impact on their journey to freedom.

Children’s Advocates shared each child’s individual successes which ranged from learning how to walk to graduating high school and much more.

To kick off the celebration, a musician Jonelle Tate performed the song “I Didn’t Know my Own Strength.”

After the moving performance, WINGS staff recognized each adult and child graduate one by one for their achievements.

Not only did graduates get recognition, but each current client and child in the program was recognized for the goals they have achieved.

Given their WINGS

WINGS President & CEO presented each client with their wings which were given to graduates ahead of the celebration.

“This is always my favorite event of the year…I’m so amazed at your strength and everything you have all overcome. You continue to meet each challenge each day head up, moving forward. Helping your kids to be the best people they can be.

Each day brings challenges and you have overcome those; and you continue to overcome those…

If you haven’t already, you will receive a special butterfly necklace. Those are your wings. Those are a gift from us to take those wings and to fly. We wish you nothing but the best for you and your children because that is what you deserve.”

Graduates Shared their Heartfelt Messages

All 13 graduates had inspiring stories of resilience and determination. Below are a few examples from graduates who opted to share.

Z*

While in the WINGS Program, Z was able to complete her CNA from Harper College, learn how to drive, obtain her driver’s license, find stable housing, and more. She shares:

“Thanks to WINGS, I was able to create a safe and independent life for myself and my son.”

LC*

LC changed her life and courageously left a violent relationship. By the time LC graduated from WINGS, she had a job, car, and nice house. LC shares:

“Through the strength that came from my children and the support I received from WINGS, I’m now free.

WINGS cared for me and my family like no one ever before. I would like to thank Sam, Ruby, Beverly, and Christy. I hope the program continues to help other women in need.”

Tequila

Tequila faced many obstacles during her time at WINGS. However, she persevered, remained strong, went back to school, obtained a car, and sustained employment. She shares:

“I’m proud to say all of my children are doing exceptionally well. Also, I’ve accomplished all of my goals. I’m looking forward to giving back. Thanks to WINGS for all of the support through everything.”

MJ*

During MJ’s time with WINGS, she was able to obtain full-time work in healthcare, buy a car, and work toward completing a higher education degree. MJ shares:

“I was in a really abusive relationship and WINGS helped me break from that. One thing I learned was how to be a better mother and how to take care of my family.

Now I’m working and I’m actually going back to school. I have my kids living with me now. We have a routine and the program taught me that.

WINGS helped me get into my own place. They helped me get through a lot of things in my life. Without this program, I probably wouldn’t be where I’m at today.

I will forever be grateful for WINGS and The Network for allowing me to participate in this program. Because they were there for me, I finally got through a horrible stage in my life. Now I’m in my transitioning season.

I just want to thank you all. Thank you all so much for being there for me and my children in our time of need.

May God bless you all and help other women and children in this situation. May you be always able to help them and get them through what they have to get through in life.”

Closing Remarks

La Tonya, WINGS Chief Program Officer shared her closing remarks:

“To our graduates, congratulations! Through the hard times you have allowed us to be there with you. You have opened your hearts and allowed us in. You have taken suggestions. You help us as much as we help you…

Congratulations on obtaining permanent housing, healthcare, gainful employment, and most of all, keeping yourselves and your families safe. WINGS didn’t do this, you did this. We were just the conduit to hold your hand along the journey.

To all the kiddos, congratulations! I’m so proud of all that you have learned on this journey…

To those of you who remain in the program, we hope you have seen all the things you can accomplish. We hope you see how much we do truly care about you and your success and getting you to the next step in your life. Our goal is that next year we see you at this Celebration of Courage. We are going to work really hard for you. We hope to continue to do the work with you.

Lastly, I’ve heard some amazing things tonight: One thing that really struck me is ‘Your family doesn’t have to be blood.’ ‘You can push for your goals.’ ‘You’re worth it.’

Thank you for attending this evening. We appreciate you and your time. We are so proud of you and your accomplishments.”

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*WINGS uses representative names and photos to protect the dignity and security of those we serve.