Hidden Gems: Meet Carmen Meurer of The Flourish Society

“To grow or develop in a healthy or vigorous way, especially as the result of a particularly favorable environment.”

Sometimes life throws you unexpected curve balls, and this one was a doozy. As I sought a new purpose for my life after a momma’s tragedy, I set out with flourishing as my mission. My goal was to flourish personally and use my gifts and talents to help other women flourish in their lives. Because each of us experiences a variety of hardships and tough circumstances, I hoped to lean into women so they could feel seen, heard, and valued and bring in some fun along the way.

While attending a women’s conference in Houston that year, I came upon a ministry that was looking for women leaders to start chapters in their local cities. I knew immediately that this is what I was being called to do. With new curriculum in my hands, I began the Holland Propel Women’s chapter in Holland, Michigan. Over a two-year time frame, over 100 women attended our studies held at our city library. As leaders, we began looking for what was drawing women to our group and thinking about other activities we could be offering to enhance women’s lives. A safe space to overcome obstacles, lift each other up, and give women a sense of hope for the future. And to flourish personally. This is how The Flourish Society was born.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

Well, most journeys aren’t void of pebbles and stones that make for a bumpy road. This one was no different. When I gathered our group of chapter leaders to share my vision for a new nonprofit organization, I was met with opposition that I wasn’t expecting. In fact, it stopped me in my tracks for about six months. After alot prayer and support, I moved forward by submitting all of the paperwork needed to start our nonprofit organization and filed for our 501(c)(3) status.

Today, The Flourish Society just celebrated its second year. We continue to host bible studies, fun social events, toss kindness in our community, and are now in the process of building a multi-generational mentoring program of our own.

As you know, we’re big fans of The Flourish Society. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?

Our core values represent our hopes and dreams for every woman:

• Toss Confetti, Celebrate every season

• Let’s Chat. Hold space for hearing and seeing others

• Make Waves. Inspire rippling growth + connection between women of all ages

• Be Rooted. With a firm foundation, live out love + grace

• Journey Together. Unite in sisterhood for life

What We Do:

• Gather for book and scripture studies that provoke personal stretching + growth along with insightful dialogue and new connections

• Host fun and delightful events for women to connect + network as they let their light shine

• Spread care + kindness in the communities we serve

• Come alongside women who are going through a tough time to provide love, connection, care baskets + resources

We are proud to bring a unique and inclusive women’s group to our local community, offering social and non-business-related gatherings for women of all ages.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
Here are a few accounts/authors/speakers that I follow:

1. Brené Brown

2. Bob Goff

3. Steven Furtick

4. Dr. Anita Philips

5. Dr. Henry Cloud

6. Lauren Daigle

7. Bethel Music

8. Lysa TerKeurst