Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Ever.
Hi Amy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
A Courageous Voice was born out of my trauma of being sexually abused as a child. I have worked with children and teens for over 30 years. The magnitude of CSA – is an epidemic.
I am originally from North Carolina and have lived in Michigan for 24 years. Due to my trauma, I ended up becoming homeless at 17 years old. It wasn’t until I was in my 30s that I finally found my voice. In 2020, during the pandemic, I made the move to start A Courageous Voice. a nonprofit organization that empowers children, teens, and adults with information and strategies to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to abuse off and online.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My road has not been an easy one. I was a single mom for many years and didn’t understand what healthy relationships were supposed to be like. A lot of therapy, depression, and early on suicidal thoughts and anxiety. I spent most of my life being in survival mode until my early 40s when I met an incredible life coach who changed my life. I had a mission to make sure that my children would never have to go through what I had, so living in Michigan, away from my abuser, was a promise I kept. I had no family here, but they were protected, and that was all that mattered.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about A Courageous Voice?
I am the Founder & CEO of a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that serves Wayne and Oakland Counties. I have a background in Early Childhood Education and work in schools and other youth-serving organizations, teaching children and teens how to stay safe both off and online. I am a speaker, make and sell organic soy candles to fundraise for our organization, educate adults about child sex abuse and off and online safety for their children or those that serve youth, and all other relevant duties that it takes to run a nonprofit (a lot!).
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I feel that I have freedom now. Freedom to use my voice and no longer feel the shame that I carried for so long. It’s been incredibly liberating.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.acourageousvoice.org/
- Instagram: @acourageousvoice
- Facebook: @acourageousvoice
Image Credits
Rip Saw Media
