March/April 2025 Vol. 4 Issue 10
The Many Steps to Understanding Our Purpose
A Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
When a mother gives birth to her child, I can imagine her heart becoming full of joy, amazement, and excitement. With witnessing an extension of herself come into the world, the expectations, hopes, and dreams she may have for them could understandably become her new purpose for living. Like childbirth, God blesses us with a specific purpose in life. For me, the key is learning my purposes and how to fulfill them.
A Letter from the Editor
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
Understanding and managing my purposes in life has also revealed the many layers they have. After obtaining confirmation from God about my purposes, I sought instructions on how to execute them. When, what, how, and where are the preliminary questions I have asked. However, I have learned there are a lot more answers needed from God. When the unexpected happens, and life doesn’t feel like what you think it should, what do you do? When all of your preparations fail, and who or what you are counting on lets you down, what do you do? When support of your purpose is revealed from places and individuals you didn’t anticipate, what do you do? These are just a few questions that align with the unpredictability that can occur with executing our purposes and God’s plans for our lives.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
In my quiet times, God has revealed that He expects me to keep Him at the center of my life. This means that He wants everything that I do, every concern, thought, or matter, to be run by Him first. By doing so, I believe that it lets God know that I am willing to trust Him in all matters of my life. I have also learned that when I allow myself to be patient and trust God, the impact of unpredictability can often work in my favor.
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God doesn’t give us everything that we want, especially not all at one time. There are many steps to His plan for me. More than anything, I am grateful for how He continues to extend grace and patience to me while I am fulfilling my life’s purposes. Being grateful lets God know that I am willing to do more. Yet, my willingness to do more can be enjoyable and glorious, just as long as I utilize the wisdom obtained from the lessons God has taught me.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
Having patience, exemplifying a servant’s heart, being grateful, and showing God that I trust His plan by practicing faith are part of the many steps toward understanding my purpose. Whatever we are called to do in life, I believe that it will always involve many stages. That is just part of God’s plan.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
Photo by Shaw Photography Group
Knowles Insurance Agency
Josephine Knowles
Huntsville, AL
$5000 Award for Dr. Kimberly Love
Alabama A&M University
Huntsville, AL
Search for Next President
Oakwood University
Huntsville, AL
Teen-Tastic Saturdays
Huntsville Parks & Recreation
Learn more about Herb Gray, the founder of Life Enhancement Services. Charlotte, NC She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Mia.
LaTracey McDonald
$5,000 Award Supports Dr. Kimberly Love’s ‘Austin Creek’
Information provided by Alabama A&M University
AAMU Professor Awarded South Arts Grant to Complete Debut Novel
Dr. Kimberly S. Love, Visiting Assistant Professor of English at Alabama A&M University, has been awarded a $5,000 South Arts Literary Arts Program Grant to support the completion of her debut novel, “Austin Creek.” The novel, deeply rooted in Southern culture and storytelling traditions, explores themes that resonate across generations and geographies.
The South has long been a cradle of literary excellence, producing some of the nation’s most beloved writers, from Zora Neale Hurston to William Faulkner. South Arts, a nonprofit regional arts organization, continues this tradition by supporting individual artists and arts organizations across nine Southern states, including Alabama. Love’s award recognizes “Austin Creek” for its linguistic, geographic, and cultural significance, elevating the distinct voices of the region.
Love says “Austin Creek” is a tale of family origins that reimagines stories she grew up hearing from her elders in a small enclave in Butler County, Alabama, where both her maternal and paternal lineages have descended since U.S. emancipation.
“My grandmother remembers her elders talking about money buried in the ground and protected by a snake. My cousin knows about a tree growing inside the home of a woman who led a secret congregation in the woods. Most significantly, the elders in Butler County speak about their inability to self-determine as a community in the present as they did in the past through their relationship with the land,” Love recalls.
Through poetic prose, “Austin Creek” reframes Love’s experiences and ancestral narratives to reveal deeper truths about reconnecting with the environment and each other. The novel’s exploration of death, marriage, and ancestry aims to move readers into a profound selfawareness, aligning with the oral storytelling traditions of the South.
A Huntsville native, Love studied literature and language at Tuskegee University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English. She later pursued graduate studies at the University of Virginia (UVA), focusing on 20th-century American and African American literature. Her teaching career began at UVA, where she instructed composition and literature courses and led African American Studies sections. After receiving her Ph.D. in English Language and Literature, she taught at Williams College before joining Alabama A&M in Fall 2024.
Her scholarly work has been published in “Hypatia: A Journal of Feminist Philosophy,” “Root Work Journal” and “Auburn Avenue.” She also has an upcoming essay in “The Southern Quarterly.” Love’s work aligns closely with South Arts’ mission to promote sustainability, momentum, and impact in the arts. “Ultimately, the language of “Austin Creek” should edify the reader, immersing them in the traditions of oral storytelling,” she explains.
Beyond her literary contributions, Love plays a vital role at Alabama A&M, teaching World Literature, American Literature, and Composition. Her dedication to scholarship and storytelling enriches both her students and the broader literary community.
“It’s truly rewarding to see faculty receive the support they need to excel in their work. This enhances their productivity and enriches student learning, as faculty are constantly growing and improving. Dr. Love exemplifies this spirit of continuous improvement, making a lasting impact on her department, college, and our university,” explains Dr. Peter Eley, Interim Dean of the College of Education, Humanities, and Behavioral Sciences. Readers can look forward to experiencing “Austin Creek” in print by the end of this summer. h
FaithSearch Launches Search for President of Oakwood University in Alabama
Information provided by Oakwood University
FaithSearch Partners is pleased to announce its partnership with Oakwood University to assist with their search for a new President. Oakwood University, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is the only HBCU within the Seventh-day Adventist denomination, with a rich history spanning more than a century. Oakwood is consistently recognized by national media, business, and educational associations. US News and World Report ranks it perennially among the nation’s “Best Colleges,” both in terms of the “Historically Black Colleges and Universities” (HBCUs) and “Regional Colleges/South” categories; the magazine also ranks Oakwood among the top ten HBCUs with highest graduation rates. The University has tremendous local impact hosting, since 1946, the annual Camp Meeting for the South Central Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, a 10-day spiritual/educational/recreational retreat accommodating up to 10,000 attendees.
The current President is moving into a new role this summer with the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists after serving nearly 15 years, the longest presidential tenure in school history. The next President will be a servant-leader person who has the ability to analyze complex issues, make decisions, and manage multiple responsibilities in a high-volume, diverse working environment.
If you are aware of potential candidates, preferably with a strong track record leading within a higher education institution, please contact Ed Fry at edfry@faithsearchpartners.com or Andrew Westmoreland at awestmoreland@faithsearchpartners.com. Interested candidates can also forward a current resume/curriculum vitae via email. All inquiries will be held in strict confidence.
To learn more about FaithSearch Partners, visit www.faithsearchpartners.com. Visit our services page to learn more about FaithSearch’s service lines.
Teen-Tastic Saturdays: Parks & Recreation Series to Focus on Essential Life Lessons
Information provided by www.huntsvilleal.gov/recreation
Huntsville Parks and Recreation is hosting Teen-tastic Saturdays, a free series of workshops for teens at the Mark Russell Recreation Center, 429 Taylor Road, Owens Cross Roads.
There are four different images representing each session. Job readiness. car care, social media and eco-friendly.
“This series offers young men and women in our community a way to learn essential skills with a hands-on approach,” Parks and Recreation Director James Gossett said. “Each session is designed to be engaging and practical, giving teens the confidence to apply what they’ve learned in real-world situations.”
Sessions are as follows:
March 22: Job Readiness Workshop, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Ages 15-18)
March 29: Car Care Basics for Teens, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Ages 15-18)
April 5: Smart Social Media for Teens, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Ages 13-18)
April 12: Eco-Pioneers / Teens for a Greener Tomorrow, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Ages 13-18)
For more details, please visit www.huntsvilleal.gov/recreation h h
Knowles Insurance Agency
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Josephine Knowles
For Josephine Knowles, being a servant of God and ensuring that her children have access to generational wealth is very important.
The Huntsville, AL, resident is the mom of three boys, ages six, eight, and 18. She was born in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and raised in Hallandale Beach, FL. Her parents moved to Marietta, GA, during the second half of Josephine’s junior year in high school, and she eventually graduated from Marietta High School. Next, she attended Life University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 2004. Josephine’s original plan was to become a pediatrician, but after realizing the cost of medical school and becoming pregnant in 2005, her attention shifted to her more pressing priorities.
In 2006, Josephine launched her first business, a men’s urban clothing store in Talladega, AL. “My oldest son’s father had some friends in the city and brought the idea to me, believing it would do well since people were driving to Birmingham or Atlanta for that type of apparel. As an entrepreneur and a mom, things seemed to be moving in the right direction. My business was doing well, and I thought I could sustain myself while eventually returning to medical school. However, I enjoyed the freedom that entrepreneurship offered. Unfortunately, the economy took a turn, and in 2011, I was forced to close the doors of my store as a result,” she says.
Life continued to happen for Josephine. In 2012, she met the guy who she would eventually marry the same year, Julian. “At the time, he was pastoring, and we decided to start a daycare within the church. The daycare grew rapidly, and things went well until another shift occurred. In 2017, the church closed, and so did the daycare. After months of searching for employment with no success, I reached out to someone I knew who gave me an Allstate Insurance business card. I asked if her office was hiring, and her reply was “yes”. I sent over my resume and I was interviewed, and within four weeks, I obtained my insurance license and began working for the largest Allstate agent in the southeast region,” Josephine says.
“My business was doing well, and I thought I could sustain myself while eventually returning to medical school. However, I enjoyed the freedom that entrepreneurship offered.”
In 2020, the insurance industry shifted, and Josephine started thinking about starting an agency. She says she wanted to offer more than just one product to her clients. After doing some research, she finally took the leap and started my own independent agency, Knowles Insurance Agency, in 2023. Josephine remarried her husband in 2024 after being divorced for three years.
With her agency, Josephine sells Home, Auto, Motorcycle, RV, boat, and Life insurance products from Travelers, Nationwide, The Hartford, Progressive, Geico, and more. When asked what she loves most about what she does, Josephine says it’s being able to educate her clients about their insurance products and help them understand the right coverage for their needs.
Pictured with Josephine are her husband Julian, and sons (left to right) Julius Jones, John Knowles, and Julian Jones
“Everything I’ve experienced has helped shape and motivate me to look past problems and find solutions. It has taught me that if you’re willing, you’ll find a way.”
With most businesses, there are some challenges and obstacles that may present themself from time to time, and with The Knowles Insurance Agency, it has happened also. Josephine says, “One of the challenges I faced was carriers closing their books to independent agents, with Allstate being one of those companies. This meant that the carriers I had hoped to write business for were no longer an option, leaving me with fewer choices to help my clients. Additionally, carriers began to prefer business written for homes that were less than 10 years old. I managed these challenges by seeking out additional insurance carriers to write for and continuing to build my network with Realtors, loan officers, and new construction builders’ agents to write policies for the carriers’ preferred.”
Josephine says her children have had the greatest impact on her. “I wanted to have the ability to pass down generational wealth and show them that if you put God first, He will guide you, and you can trust His plan for your life, even when things don’t go as expected or as you’ve planned,” she says.
While things have not happened in life the way Josephine wished they had, she admits that she wouldn’t change anything. “Everything I’ve experienced has helped shape and motivate me to look past problems and find solutions. It has taught me that if you’re willing, you’ll find a way.” Her advice to others who may follow a similar path in life as hers is to put God first in all things. She also says to seek out individuals who are doing what you aspire to and ask for advice and guidance to avoid some trial and error.
Looking ahead, Josephine plans to continue to grow her network and focus on self-development. “I hope that with each encounter I have with individuals, they experience the next best version of me,” she says. To learn more about the Knowles Insurance Agency, please visit their website.
Vice President Employee Engagement Huntsville Utilities
“It’s A God Thing”
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Dr. Harry Hobbs
“Harry Hobbs, Huntsville Utilities, how may I help you?” That is how our interview began with a phone call to Huntsville, AL, resident Dr. Harry Hobbs. For those who have been blessed to know him, one obvious thing: Dr. Harry Hobbs is committed to serving his community and helping others.
It was 1960 in Louisville, KY, when Dr. Hobbs was born in the middle of the color line to a white father and a black mother. He was abandoned by his father and was raised in the full black experience. By the grace of God, Harry was surrounded by individuals who invested in him and helped him to become the person he is today: the first person of color and vice president in the history of the largest municipality-multiservice utilities in the United States.
In his role with Huntsville Utilities, Dr. Hobbs oversees various operations such as employee engagement, hiring, firing, promotions, corrective actions, safety and security, facilities, master plants, etc. Now in his seventh year in this role, Harry shares that he loves providing people with opportunities. “When I see someone who looks like me, and I am able to give them an opportunity to have a job as a utility investor, it makes it all worth it.”
The path that he has taken in life has come with its share of highs and lows. Dr. Hobbs shares that early in life, he was exposed to racism, receiving it from both sides. What he thought was a curse would actually turn out to be a blessing. “I have been able to mediate between the races and economic levels and be a viable voice in my community,” he says.
At the age of 11, Harry became a boy scout. He became the first Eagle Scout of color in Kentucky. The skills he acquired would propel him into a successful career in the United States Army. “The military was my way out. For 30 years, I traveled around the world and was able to pick up several degrees. When I retired, I was the Senior Missle Systems Warrant Officer and was inducted into four different Army Halls of Fame,” he shares. Additionally, he served on the 5th District Military Academies selection committee for 10 years.
After 30 years of service in the military, Dr. Hobbs worked as a high school teacher in the city of Huntsville and a JROTC teacher at Columbia High School. That role mirrors the role he previously had as a college professor while in the Army. In addition to being a high school teacher, he worked as a consultant for the cities of Huntsville and Madison, AL, police and fire departments. In 2010, Dr. Hobbs was selected to be the Communications Relations Officer for the Huntsville Police Department and served until 2014. In 2011, Dr.. Hobbs was selected as the youth mentor of the year by the 100 Black Man Organization. That same year, he was selected to be a member of the 5th District State Representative’s Military Nomination Committee.
Dr. Hobbs’ recognition for his many acts of service continues. He was selected to receive the Harriett Tubman 2020 award for his outreach to the underserved communities in North Alabama. In 2021, he was inducted into the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Hall of Fame (Eagle Rising Society). He accepted a state committee nomination from Governor Kay Ivey to work on the Alabama Works Council in 2021 and the Workforce Development state board. Dr. Hobbs served on the board of Leadership Huntsville from 2022-2024 and also accepted a board position for Huntsville Bible College (Historical Black College or University) in 2022. Additionally, he accepted a board position for Leadership Huntsville in 2023.
Dr. Hobbs holds two Doctorate degrees, one in Business Administration (Florida Institute of Technology) and one in Human Resources Management (Western Pacific University, Honolulu, Hawaii); Master of Science degree in Human Services, Murray State University, Kentucky; Bachelor of Science degree in Resources Management, Troy State at Dothan, Alabama; and an Associate of Science degree in Missile and Munitions Technology, John C. Calhoun State College, Alabama. He also holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University and a Project Management Professional Certification.
“I was the only multiracial member in my family. All of my other siblings were black. I am half white and half black. My grandfather was my father figure; he raised me and was never ashamed of me. He gave me an example of what hard work looks like.”
Pictured with Dr. Hobbs, is wife of 44 years, Erica
Dr. Hobbs shares his life with his wife of 44 years, Erica. They have two daughters, Shara, a former U.S. Army Soldier, and Shauna, a Major in the Army Reserves Nurse Corps. They also have four grandchildren: Cree, Julian, Liam, and Layla.
Dr. Hobbs says that his grandfather has inspired and impacted his life. “I was the only multiracial member in my family. All of my other siblings were black. I am half white and half black. My grandfather was my father figure; he raised me and was never ashamed of me. He gave me an example of what hard work looks like. He had a lawn care and carpentry business. My grandmother cleaned homes for very affluent caucasian people in the Louisville area. I stand on their shoulders,” he says.
“I thank God that I live in America where hard work and God’s unmerited favor can take you places you never thought possible. I thank all the educators and mentors that poured into me through the years. I stand on their shoulders.” h
Dr. Hobbs’ acts of service continue today. Most recently, he was sworn in as Commissioner for the Alabama Commission on Higher Education. “I will play a small role in overseeing the curriculum and programs for all of the colleges in the state of Alabama,” he says. This role means a whole lot to Dr. Hobbs as he is reminded that his mother had a 6th-grade education and always wanted better for her children. “I thank God that I live in America where hard work and God’s unmerited favor can take you places you never thought possible. I thank all the educators and mentors that poured into me through the years. I stand on their shoulders,” Dr. Hobbs says.
Looking ahead, Dr. Hobbs will continue to seek ways to help others in his community by way of service. He shares that he has been asked to serve on the Madison City School Board and is pondering that decision. He has been asked to pursue a career in politics. Regardless of what he does, Dr. Hobbs wants to be in a position to offer solutions.
Dr.LaTracey McDonald
The Visionary Empowering Authors, Artists, and Communities
By Terry L. Watson
From educator to entrepreneur, from minister to mogul—Dr. LaTracey McDonald is a powerhouse of inspiration. With a legacy built on education, publishing, and community outreach, she has transformed her passion into a movement. As the founder of multiple businesses and non-profits, her mission is clear: to empower, uplift, and create lasting change.
Dr. McDonald of Huntsville, AL, is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse background in education, non-profit management, publishing, and business consulting. She holds a Doctorate in Humanitarianism from the Global International Alliance and a Mini MBA in Non-Profit Management from St. Thomas University. She has also completed the Institute for Executive Leadership Development at St. Thomas University. Even more, Dr. McDonald is an ordained elder and has received numerous awards, including “Publisher of the Year” and “Author of the Year.” She is the author of 49 books, with over 10 achieving best-seller status. Her passion lies in community outreach, capacity building, and leadership development.
Dr. McDonald is a is a best-selling author and a globally recognized motivational speaker. She is also a multifaceted entrepreneur, owning several businesses that focus on enhancing the quality of lives of others. These include LaTracey C. Hughes Enterprises, LLC, Black Authors Rock, LLC, Capstone Experience, Inc., and BAR Arts Collective. At the same time, her ventures offer a wide range of services, including coaching, consulting, publishing, bookstores, and professional development. Dr. McDonald specializes in grant writing, business development, printing, publishing, and promotions as well.
Capstone Experience, Inc. and Bar Arts Collective are both non-profit organizations. Capstone focuses on community outreach, strategic planning, and event management, and BAR Arts Collective is dedicated to arts and education. Annually, she hosts the Sexy With A Pen Artist Awards Gala and the Speak It! Write It! Publish It! Conference, where she recognizes and honors artists.
“I enjoy helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential and positively impact my community. What brings me the most joy is witnessing the manifestation of their goals, from the planning stage to execution.”
Photos Provided by Dr. LaTracey McDonald
The arts and being a resource for her community is something that’s always been close to Dr. McDonald’s heart. She began her career working in education and non-profit management. In 2008, she founded Capstone Experience, Inc., and led it from a startup to a thriving organization. Since October 2010, she has run LaTracey C. Hughes Enterprises, LLC and Black Authors Rock, LLC. While her home served as a proving ground for Dr. McDonald, her reach is now on a global scale.
It’s very apparent that Dr. McDonald is passionate about empowering others through education, leadership development, and community outreach. She says, “I enjoy helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential and positively impact my community. What brings me the most joy is witnessing the manifestation of their goals, from the planning stage to execution.”
Of course, she couldn’t accomplish all that she has without the love and support of her family, and confesses they are her greatest form of inspiration. “I am building a legacy for my children and grandson,” she says. “My extensive education, community service, and leadership skills have played vital roles. However, nothing is more important than my impact on my family. My twelve-year-old daughter, Everyone’s Purpose, is a three-time best-selling author and business owner. She is surely following in her mother’s footsteps.”
Running several businesses at once can be a very daunting task, as is the case for Dr. McDonald, maintaining her health and wellness while doing so and making it look effortless. She has also navigated the complexities of growing two non-profit organizations, securing funding through grant writing, and balancing multiple business ventures, including publishing, consulting, and motivational speaking. She has faced these challenges head-on through prayer, strategic pivoting, and seeking assistance during pivotal moments. She acknowledges the lessons learned from failures and continuously aligns her decisions with her long-term goals. “My strong leadership and unwavering commitment to my mission have been key to my success,” she explains.
“My extensive education, community service, and leadership skills have played vital roles. However, nothing is more important than my impact on my family.”
As a sole proprietor, Dr. McDonald has built a successful and impactful career, and while there have been a few peaks and valleys, she appreciates how things have occurred. She says, “If I could change anything, I would have built a strong team sooner to support the vision and mission of my God-given empire rather than carrying the weight of being a one-woman show. My advice to others whose journey may mirror that of mine is to pursue continuous education, gain hands-on experience, and build strong community relationships. Having resilience, adaptability, and knowing when to rest while staying committed to one’s mission is very important. Above all, remember that you can never give up.”
In the future, Dr. McDonald’s dedication to community outreach and leadership development remains at the forefront of her mission. She is also placing her focus on expanding her influence through social media while bringing people from online spaces into in-person experiences through her publishing, coaching, and consulting businesses. As a trailblazer and blueprint for others, she is committed to further growing both non-profits, BAR Arts Collective and Capstone Experience, Inc., while continuing her work as a motivational speaker and author. The next Speak It! Write It! Publish It! Working Conference is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, in Huntsville. Stay tuned for more details.
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER ELEVEN: Home Is Where The Heart Dwells
I could count each day since the day of my mother’s stroke experience. As life-changing as it was, the entire experience of becoming her caregiver has transformed the lives of each one of her family members. For me, it has shown me how to love someone from a different perspective.
Like most kids, when we are young and totally dependent on the care and needs of our parents, the thought of ever losing them is unimaginable and, in some ways, frightening. The person who fed me, cleaned, and wiped the dirt and gooey stuff from my face and nose; the one who taught me and corrected and caressed all of my bumps and bruises; as a child, I could never fathom the idea of losing them. However, as an adult, that is a part of life that I have grown to understand. The natural course of life requires children to care for their aging and dependent parents. It also requires us to prepare our hearts and minds for an eventual separation. Over the last nine years, I have appreciated each opportunity that God has blessed me with to be there for my mother. Whether it be caring for her in my home, taking her to doctor appointments, going to the hair salon, going out to dinner, or going to a baby shower or funeral, I have enjoyed each experience.
I remember one Sunday, I decided to take Mom on a road trip. After getting her into my two-seater sports car, which wasn’t very roomy, we made our way down the highway to Charlotte, NC, to a soul food restaurant. My mom and I have always liked livers and onions, and that particular restaurant had a delicious serving, among many other tasteful entrees. What I enjoyed most about the ride was sharing laughs with her along the way. I was also pleased to see her enjoy the ride and point out specific landmarks along the highway. Even before her stroke, Mom always enjoyed road trips, and seeing her actively participate in this one provided me with some hope and a breath of fresh air. We ate our food in the parking lot of the restaurant, and by the time we headed back home, Mom was, of course, asleep. That was a great day for us.
Today, while I am not caring for my mother in my home, I honestly feel that the love connection between her and all of my family is very much intact. I believe that she knows that we are doing the best with what God has provided. The opportunity to be constant, available, and present, whether in person or by telephone, helps keep our connections relevant.
One thing for sure is that while becoming a caregiver for my mother started the day of her stroke experience, it didn’t end with the acquisition of additional assistance outside of my home. Honestly, it instified. She continues to have the same needs and to ensure they are being met, the consistent presence of our family is required. The care and support that we provide comes from our hearts. So, no matter where my mother calls home, home is where the heart dwells.
This is my story of becoming a caregiver to my mother.
I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You! h
Mia
The granddaughter of Jocelyn Snipes
Life Enhancement Services Herb Gray
Enhancing the
Lives of Individuals, Families, and the Community
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Life Enhancement Services
There aren’t many places one could go in Charlotte, NC, where Herb Gray isn’t known. The philanthropist, community leader, and entrepreneur has made it his lifes’ mission to serve. Whether it be through his company, Life Enhancement Services, or simply being present in time of need, Herb has consistently answered the call.
Since 2011, Herb has owned and operated Life Enhancement Services, a nationally accredited behavioral healthcare agency with offices in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD, Dallas and Houston, TX. Serving over 3000 people yearly, Life Enhancement Services provides diverse services for trauma, grief, depression, and anger management. Their programs offer individual, family, and community-based support to enhance mental well-being. Herb says, “The vision to start LES came from my desire to help people in need who suffered from mental health issues. We help teens, young adults, adults, and their families’ overcome challenges with substance use, addiction, and mental health conditions. Our holistic approach integrates therapy, counseling, and community engagement to foster growth and resilience.”
Examples of their services are Day Rehab, which is a familyfocused, culturally competent, and community-based model that provides time-limited, intensive services to help improve the lives of children with complex needs. This also reduces the need for more restrictive settings, including and especially out-of-home placements. They also offer Diagnostic Assessment, which is an intensive clinical and functional face-to-face evaluation of a client’s mental health, developmental disability, or substance abuse condition. This results in the issuance of a Diagnostic / Assessment report with a recommendation regarding whether the recipient meets entrance criteria and includes an order for Enhanced Benefit services that provides the basis for the development of an initial person-centered Treatment Plan. Additionally, LES offers substance use disorder rehabilitation, medical interventions that include assessments, prescriptions, supervision or administration of mental-health-related medications, and monitoring and interpreting results of laboratory diagnostic procedures that are related to psychotropic medications. Their TIP rehab often refers to Targeted Interventions Program (TIP) rehabilitation, to name a few.
I have a desire to help others and a longing to fight for mental, social, and economic change. Talking to the underprivileged, understanding their behavioral and mental concerns, and working at the grassroots moves me to achieve more in life.”
A native of Charlotte, NC, Herb is happily married to Felecia, and they have one daughter, Bailey Gray. Herb is a graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and has received many awards and accolades, which echo and confirm his commitment to serving and helping others. These include the 100 Black Men Philanthropic Advocate Award, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte Service Award, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Citizen Of The Year Award (NC/SC), The Good Scout Award by the Mecklenburg County Council Boy Scouts of America, Johnson C. Smith University Presidential Award of Distinction, President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., HBCU Living Legend award, District of Columbia Housing Authority Excellence Award, Top 50 Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs of Texas.
When asked what he loves most about what he does, Herb says it’s the opportunity to employ people in careers that are meaningful to them and impactful to the community. He also loves how LES contributes to the community by supplying clothing, school supplies, meals, educational services, housing resources, and job readiness through its monthly community events. “I have a desire to help others and a longing to fight for mental, social, and economic change. Talking to the underprivileged, understanding their behavioral and mental concerns, and working at the grassroots moves me to achieve more in life,” Herb shares. “LES provides me with opportunities to give back to society and a chance to pass on lessons learned through experience and art.”
Herb says that societal influences and economic factors have impacted his life and career. He shares these are people who gave him many gifts of understanding, empathy, and kindness, all of which he tries to model. These also include friendships that he’s developed over the years, which have shaped who he is now. These are those who Herb says listened and encouraged him as he evolved.
Like most businesses, there are challenges that will present themselves at one time or another, and for LES, this has been the case as well. There has been the challenge of navigating increased competition and ever-changing rules and regulations from government agencies and insurance providers. Yet, Herb has never lost focus on why he started. He says, “The ability to obtain and maintain adequate funding for marketing operations, clear market segmentation, sufficient systems and staying abreast on policies and procedures has helped me manage the roller coasters of business.”
While there have been a few ups and downs along the way, Herb says each experience has helped shape his career decisions. “I believe that all things work together for my good.”
Looking ahead, in addition to leading LES into greater endeavors, Herb will spend his time focusing on his love of art. He is an avid art collector, and he has built the The Gray Art Collection, which was born from his passion for art. “I am looking forward to continuing to collect art and to use art as therapy in schools and education to enhance the educational environment and cultural vibrancy of my community,” he says.
To learn more about Life Enhancement Services or The Gray Art Collection, please visit their websites.
1301 L’Enfant Square SE Washington, DC 20020
202-269-2401 h
6340 Security Boulevard Suite 100
Baltimore, MD 21207
202-269-2401
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Dallas, Texas 75247
800-553-6040
350 Glenborough Dr. Suite 138
Houston, TX 77067
800-553-6040
Cassey
Mapp-Ahmed
“It Takes A Village”
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Jodie Brim Creative
Cassey Mapp-Ahmed of Greensboro, NC, has dedicated her life to helping others. She is a holistic doula and is professionally insured, Level II background screened, HIPPA certified, adult/infant CPR certified, and an approved Medicaid contractor. Her experience as a doula encompasses over a decade, and she brings more than 20 years of expertise in Minority Health Research. She holds a Master’s in Public Health along with B.S. Honors degrees in Biochemistry and Biology, complemented by various certifications.
She is also the CEO and Founder of Village Sis Doula, LLC, an organization dedicated to improving Maternal and Infant Health. Originally from the stunning mountains of Asheville, NC, Cassey is a proud mother of two wonderful children who motivated her to foster a nurturing community for mothers, raise awareness about maternal health, and promote overall wellness in the community. She does this by way of her company, Village Sis Doula, LLC.
Village Sis Doula, LLC offers a multitude of services that are designed to fit her client’s specific needs before, during, and after their pregnancy journey. Cassey provides gestational individuals with emotional, physical, and spiritual support throughout pregnancy, birthing, and postpartum. She also offers doula support, fertility doula services, postpartum support, antepartum assistance, doula mentorship, holistic wellness, belly binding, public speaking, and consultations.
Cassey’s mission is to offer physical, emotional, and spiritual support, as well as education, to birthing individuals, fostering an empowering birth experience. She operates with a community assetbased approach, harnessing the love and support of her village, which echoes her motto, “IT TRULY TAKES A VILLAGE!”
I am wholeheartedly devoted to my role as a doula, valuing the chance to assist families in exploring their birthing options and gaining the vital tools needed to advocate for themselves and their loved ones.”
Cassey’s vision of Village Sis Doula, LLC stemmed from her personal journey of fertility struggles, motherhood, and a profound awareness of the challenges related to minority health disparities. Her journey began in 2014, driven by a personal and profound motivation stemming from her own traumatic birth experience and a deep awareness of maternal health disparities in her community. Over the years, she’s had the privilege of providing support to numerous families, enriching their birthing experiences through her expertise and compassion. “I understand how crucial community support and education are in promoting personal health and wellness. This is especially important during pregnancy,” she says.
In addition to being a doula, Cassey advocates for minority health and wellness initiatives. She has mentored many birth workers to further her company’s mission of reducing Black Maternal and Infant Mortality.
Research shows that Black birthing individuals are three to four times more likely to face mortality from childbirth complications than their white counterparts. Alarmingly, 60% of these deaths are considered preventable and are not influenced by socioeconomic factors. This stark reality has been a significant driving force behind the establishment of Village Sis Doula, LLC, highlighting the importance of Cassey’s mission. “I am wholeheartedly devoted to my role as a doula, valuing the chance to assist families in exploring their birthing options and gaining the vital tools needed to advocate for themselves and their loved ones,” she says.
Understanding available choices and recognizing accessible resources, Cassey explains, can be incredibly empowering. “Such tools are essential throughout the experiences of pregnancy, motherhood, and parenting. Having been unaware of these options during my first pregnancy, I developed a passion for sharing these invaluable resources with my community and fostering safe spaces for parents to seek support.”
As a business owner, Cassey has encountered a few challenges. One she says has been the challenge of needing to carve out quality time to recharge. “It’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed by life’s demands, particularly as a dedicated entrepreneur and mother. Nonetheless, self-nurturing is essential. I counter this by embracing my vulnerability and creating a supportive community for accountability. This has been with fellow parents who are seeking therapy. I have also collaborated with a wellness coach and joined a journaling circle. Taking such measures has helped me prioritize my physical, mental, and emotional health,” Cassey says.
Looking ahead, Cassey says the plans for Village Sis Doula LLC is to further develop community and partnerships that will enhance maternal health and wellness support, both nationally and internationally. “Village Sis Doula stands as a beacon for maternal health justice. I will continue to empower my clients and community through education, helping them understand their choices, their bodies, and the strength of their voices,” she says. For those seeking guidance and support in navigating the beautiful yet challenging path of childbirth, please contact Cassey to learn more about her services.
