05/30/2026
HISTORY HAS BEEN MADE! - The Shield Community Connection Pilot Program has officially come to a successful conclusion, and in behalf of our Founder, DrKaren Denise Alston, we are honored to celebrate a milestone that will forever be part of our organization's history.
Founded by Jewel Empowerment Institute, LLC and Dr. Karen D. DrKaren Denise Alston, The Shield Community Connection was developed as an innovative survivor-centered initiative designed to promote healing, accountability, restoration, personal growth, and community connection for women impacted by trauma and life challenges.
S.H.I.E.L.D. stands for: 💜Survivors Helping Inspire Each Other to Live, Love, and Dream Again Without Fear.
This vision became a reality as 14 courageous women began the journey. Twelve women remained committed throughout the process, and ultimately; 10 survivors successfully completed the program, becoming the inaugural graduating class of The Shield Community Connection.
The significance of a pilot program of this magnitude cannot be overstated. Pilot programs serve as the foundation upon which future programs are built. They test concepts, establish best practices, identify challenges, and create a model that can be refined and expanded to serve others. These 10 graduates were more than participants—they were pioneers. Through their courage, resilience, commitment, and willingness to trust the process, they helped establish a framework that has the potential to impact countless lives throughout our community and beyond.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our valued Community Partner, SAFE Shelter, Center for Domestic Violence Services, Inc., without their support this vision would not have become a reality, and for standing alongside us in support of survivors and helping make this initiative possible. Thank you to Shannon Bates and her staff at SAFE Shelter, Center for Domestic Violence Services, Inc. for trusting us in this process.
Special appreciation is also extended to our Platinum Community Advocates Sponsors: Union Mission and Office of the Chatham County District Attorney Victim-Witness Assistance Program.
Our Golden Community Advocate Sponsors: Teiranna Shine, LLC and Melanie Mason Dear Daughter; Public Health 4 Kidz Production LLC; Broken Wings Transformation;
Our distinguished caterers & reception decor with Bishop Bennett and Bishop Tevin Roberts; Our chapel decor JB Events & Designs ...
Our anointed and appointed Psalmist Dr Charlesetta Blake
Your partnership and investment in this vision helped create an experience that empowered women to reclaim their voices, strengthen their futures, and discover the power of community.
To our graduates: Thank you for trusting the process, embracing the journey, and allowing your stories to become part of something greater than yourselves. You have made history, and your legacy will forever remain the foundation of The Shield Community Connection.
Congratulations to our First Cohort of Shield Community Connection Graduates! Your courage has paved the way for those who will follow.
Special thanks to:
Mayor Van Johnson II for his words of congratulations and support.
Office of the Chatham County District Attorney Shalena Jones for her continued advocacy for survivors and commitment to our community.
Mike Traynor, President & CEO of Union Mission, for his encouragement and partnership in supporting transformational change.
Michelle Alvardo Hart, our Event Host, for bringing grace, professionalism, and warmth to our Awards Celebration and Retreat Experience.
The Jewel Team, whose dedication, service, and behind-the-scenes efforts helped create an unforgettable experience for our inaugural cohort.
This moment could not be recorded in history without your help and creative talent ... Labeeb Abdullah thank you so much!
Your support helped empower ten courageous survivors who made history as the first graduating class of The Shield Community Connection.
"Survivors Helping Inspire Each Other to Live, Love, and Dream Again Without Fear."
