Dorothy Mitchell | VOICES of Alameda County Inc.
| What’s the name of your business, nonprofit or project? |
| VOICES of Alameda County Inc. |
| What city and country is your business, nonprofit or project located in? |
| Oakland, Alameda |
| Describe your business, nonprofit or project, and the products and/or services you offer? |
| VOICES of Alameda County Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women and children, men, LGBTQ people, and those who have experienced abuse. Our services include providing education workshops, classes, and resources to survivors to help them regain their independence and rebuild their lives. We believe survivors should not face life’s challenges in isolation and aim to be a steadfast source of support. VOICES of Alameda County Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women and children, men, LGBTQ people, and those who have experienced abuse. Our services include providing education workshops, classes, and resources to survivors to help them regain their independence and rebuild their lives. We believe survivors should not face life’s challenges in isolation and aim to be a steadfast source of support. |
| Are you Caribbean or African, or of Caribbean or African descent? If you are, please tell us details. |
| I am an African American survivor of domestic violence; I feel no one should ever live in fear of abuse in one lifetime. As an African American survivor of domestic violence, I know firsthand the profound impact that abuse can have on every aspect of a person’s life. Fear, isolation, and an overwhelming sense of powerlessness are feelings no one should ever endure, let alone in one’s lifetime. My experiences have shaped my belief that everyone deserves to live free from the shadow of abuse, with the opportunity to rebuild their lives and reclaim their sense of self-worth. My journey has fueled a deep commitment to ensuring that others do not have to face the same struggles alone. I have turned my pain into purpose by dedicating myself to creating a support network for those who have experienced similar hardships. It is my mission to empower survivors with the tools, resources, and education they need to break free from the cycle of violence and build a future filled with hope and opportunity. No one should have to live in fear, and through our work, we are helping to create a world where safety, dignity, and self-sufficiency are accessible to all. |
| Do you think your Caribbean or African upbringing/heritage has impacted your work? If so, please explain how. |
| Being raised in the South during the 1960s and 1970s profoundly influenced the strength I carry with me today. My parents instilled in me a deep sense of pride and self-worth, values cherished in our community then. Despite the era’s challenges, our upbringing was rooted in the belief that we were worthy of respect and dignity and that no one had the right to diminish our value. This foundation of pride was priceless, a beacon of strength that has guided me through life’s most challenging moments. In those days, there was an unspoken assurance that we were protected, not just by our families but by the collective spirit of our community. Fear was not something we had to face alone because a network of love and support surrounded us. This culture of protection and empowerment shaped who I am today and has been a source of resilience in my journey as a survivor. It taught me that, no matter the circumstances, I deserve safety, respect, and the ability to live free from fear. This legacy of strength continues to inspire me as I work to ensure that others can experience the same sense of worth and protection that I was fortunate to receive. |
| How does your work positively impact culture + community? |
| We hope the work positively impacts culture and community by facilitating meaningful conversations, spreading knowledge, and offering support that can lead to personal and societal growth. Here’s how: Empowerment through Knowledge: We provide access to a wealth of information on various topics, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and take control of their lives. Whether about health, education, entrepreneurship, or social issues, shared knowledge can lead to greater self-sufficiency and improved quality of life. Support for Vulnerable Populations: By offering guidance and resources, we can support vulnerable populations, including survivors of domestic violence, marginalized communities, and those facing economic challenges. This support helps individuals break free from cycles of abuse, poverty, or oppression and contributes to a more just and equitable society. Cultural Preservation and Promotion: We help preserve and promote cultural knowledge by sharing insights into traditions, languages, and histories that may be at risk of being forgotten. This allows communities to maintain a sense of identity and pride in their heritage, fostering cultural diversity and understanding. Community Building: Through conversations, we facilitate the exchange of ideas, experiences, and solutions within communities. This can lead to more robust, more connected communities where individuals feel supported and valued. Advocacy and Awareness: We raise awareness about critical social issues, such as inequality, climate change, and mental health, encouraging people to take action. This can lead to positive changes at the grassroots and policy levels, benefiting the broader community. Inspiration and Motivation: By sharing stories of resilience, success, and innovation, we inspire others to pursue their goals and contribute to their communities. This ripple effect can lead to broader societal change as more people become motivated to make a difference. Our work aims to foster a culture of empowerment, education, and community support, leading to a more informed, connected, and resilient society. |
| Link to Your Website (if applicable) |
| https://www.voicesacinc.org |
| Links to Your Social Media Pages (if applicable) |
| https://www.facebook.com/voicesacinc.org |
| How should potential customers and persons interested in networking & partnerships contact you? |
| Dorothy Mitchell (415) 368-3113 0r (707) 297-9151 office |
| mitchell.dorothy@voicesacinc.org |
