A Letter from Desi
Hi beautiful friends,
Over the past few months, I’ve been doing a lot of listening.
Listening to your feedback.
Listening to what’s happening in the world.
Listening to my own heart about what EmpowerHER Life is meant to be.
One thing is crystal clear:
We need to stay rooted in connection, grounded in purpose, and flexible enough to keep this movement growing strong — even when times are uncertain.
That’s why we’re making a few important changes.
I want to walk you through them personally, share what’s shifting, why it matters, and why I’m more excited than ever for what’s ahead.
Doing Life Together: A New Focus for In-Person Events
Our in-person events are the heart of EmpowerHER Life.
And they’re about to get even better.
We’re shifting back to what makes our community different — real connections, real support, and real fun.
That means more time for coffee chats, celebrations, laughter, and shoulder-to-shoulder growth.
But don’t worry — the business side isn’t going away.
At our in-person events, you’ll still find:
- Featured nonprofits making an impact
- Local vendors showcasing amazing work
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
We’re simply putting the heart of the experience first — because when women connect authentically, business, growth, and impact naturally follow.
Virtual Programming: On Fire and Getting Better
One thing I’m incredibly proud of right now is our virtual programming.
It’s on fire.
The live trainings, expert sessions, community calls, and digital resources you have access to right now?
It’s next-level — and it’s only getting bigger.
Honestly, if you just tapped into the virtual side alone, your membership would still be one of the most valuable things you could invest in.
It’s helping us reach more women, in more places, who are hungry for real community and real growth.
Virtual connection is powerful.
And we’re just getting started.
Membership Updates: Keeping It Accessible
We also heard you loud and clear:
You want EmpowerHER Life to stay accessible, affordable, and valuable — especially in uncertain times.
That’s why we’re making a few important updates:
- New Membership Pricing: $65/month for new members
- Founding Members: Grandfathered in at $50/month
- Lunches: Will now be ticketed separately
This structure helps us grow sustainably while giving you more flexibility.
You’ll get access to everything EmpowerHER Life offers — and you’ll only pay for the meals and extras you want to join.
It’s about keeping this movement strong without adding stress to your life.
Coming Soon: A Standalone EmpowerHER Life Community and App
One more thing — and it’s a big one.
We’re building a standalone EmpowerHER Life community and app to make connecting even easier.
Imagine:
- Finding and messaging women across cities
- Creating circles around shared interests
- Collaborating, growing, and supporting each other — without the noise of traditional social media
It’s women supporting women, in one powerful, private, easy-to-navigate place.
And it’s coming soon.
Final Thoughts
I’m so proud of what we’ve built.
But more than that — I’m proud of where we’re going.
These changes aren’t about pulling away from what we’ve done.
They’re about pulling even closer to what matters most:
Doing life together.
Thank you for believing in this mission.
Thank you for trusting me through the shifts.
And thank you for being the heart and soul of EmpowerHER Life.
We’re just getting started.
With so much love,
Desi
Big Dreams Mean Big Shifts: Here’s What’s Next for EHL
A Letter from Desi
Hi beautiful friends,
Over the past few months, I’ve been doing a lot of listening.
Listening to your feedback.
Listening to what’s happening in the world.
Listening to my own heart about what EmpowerHER Life is meant to be.
One thing is crystal clear:
We need to stay rooted in connection, grounded in purpose, and flexible enough to keep this movement growing strong — even when times are uncertain.
That’s why we’re making a few important changes.
I want to walk you through them personally, share what’s shifting, why it matters, and why I’m more excited than ever for what’s ahead.
Doing Life Together: A New Focus for In-Person Events
Our in-person events are the heart of EmpowerHER Life.
And they’re about to get even better.
We’re shifting back to what makes our community different — real connections, real support, and real fun.
That means more time for coffee chats, celebrations, laughter, and shoulder-to-shoulder growth.
But don’t worry — the business side isn’t going away.
At our in-person events, you’ll still find:
We’re simply putting the heart of the experience first — because when women connect authentically, business, growth, and impact naturally follow.
Virtual Programming: On Fire and Getting Better
One thing I’m incredibly proud of right now is our virtual programming.
It’s on fire.
The live trainings, expert sessions, community calls, and digital resources you have access to right now?
It’s next-level — and it’s only getting bigger.
Honestly, if you just tapped into the virtual side alone, your membership would still be one of the most valuable things you could invest in.
It’s helping us reach more women, in more places, who are hungry for real community and real growth.
Virtual connection is powerful.
And we’re just getting started.
Membership Updates: Keeping It Accessible
We also heard you loud and clear:
You want EmpowerHER Life to stay accessible, affordable, and valuable — especially in uncertain times.
That’s why we’re making a few important updates:
This structure helps us grow sustainably while giving you more flexibility.
You’ll get access to everything EmpowerHER Life offers — and you’ll only pay for the meals and extras you want to join.
It’s about keeping this movement strong without adding stress to your life.
Coming Soon: A Standalone EmpowerHER Life Community and App
One more thing — and it’s a big one.
We’re building a standalone EmpowerHER Life community and app to make connecting even easier.
Imagine:
It’s women supporting women, in one powerful, private, easy-to-navigate place.
And it’s coming soon.
Final Thoughts
I’m so proud of what we’ve built.
But more than that — I’m proud of where we’re going.
These changes aren’t about pulling away from what we’ve done.
They’re about pulling even closer to what matters most:
Doing life together.
Thank you for believing in this mission.
Thank you for trusting me through the shifts.
And thank you for being the heart and soul of EmpowerHER Life.
We’re just getting started.
With so much love,
Desi
Houma Nonprofit of the Month: “HAP: Helping All People”
This month, we’re proud to spotlight a nonprofit that’s showing up for the community in real, hands-on ways—HAP: Helping All People.
As their name says, HAP is here to help. Whether someone is facing food insecurity, financial strain, housing challenges, or simply needs support, HAP works to connect people with the resources they need. Their mission is simple: be a movement that lifts people up when life gets hard.
What makes HAP stand out isn’t just what they do—it’s how they do it. They show up with heart, consistency, and a deep belief that no one should have to face their struggles alone.
How You Can Support HAP:
– Sponsor or donate to one of their upcoming initiatives
– Share their mission by following and reposting their updates
– Attend a fundraiser and bring a friend
Every small action helps fuel their work.
Follow and support HAP here:
🌐 Website
📱 Facebook
Let’s keep showing up for those who show up for others.
Houma Woman of the Month: Molly Usie
This May, we’re thrilled to celebrate someone who brings heart, warmth, and encouragement to everything she touches—Molly Usie, our Houma Chapter Woman of the Month.
If you’ve met Molly, you already know. She has a way of showing up that makes people feel seen, valued, and uplifted. Her presence fills a room without needing to say much—though when she does speak, it’s usually something thoughtful, funny, or kind.
Molly leads with compassion. She supports others without hesitation, shows up with joy, and reminds us what it looks like to live with purpose and love. Whether she’s sharing a smile or lending a listening ear, she creates space for others to feel safe, heard, and encouraged.
Molly, we’re so glad you’re part of this community. Thank you for being exactly who you are—consistent, generous, and full of light. You make EmpowerHer Life stronger just by being in the room.
Follow along with Molly’s journey on Facebook.
Northshore Woman of the Month: Erica Vaughn
Each month, EmpowerHer Life celebrates a member who exemplifies our core values and demonstrates the transformative power of womenship in action. Our Woman of the Month recognition highlights those who make meaningful contributions to our community, showing up with authenticity, supporting fellow members, and living our values of empowerment, inclusivity, and genuine connection.
Erica Vaughn embodies the heart and soul of what makes our EmpowerHer Life community so special. As the creative force behind Creative Design Studio, Erica brings her artistic talents to everything she touches, but it’s her generous spirit and unwavering support for other women that truly sets her apart.
Whether she’s stepping up to help with events, championing the accomplishments of her fellow members, or radiating positivity throughout our Northshore community, Erica exemplifies what it means to be a true “hype girl.” She consistently shows up with enthusiasm, ready to lift others and celebrate their wins as if they were her own.
What makes Erica’s impact so meaningful is how naturally and genuinely she supports those around her. Her positive energy is contagious, creating ripples of confidence and encouragement throughout our community. Through both her actions and her attitude, she demonstrates that when women champion each other, everyone rises higher.
We celebrate Erica for her dedication to fostering a culture of support and positivity among women. Her contributions remind us that sometimes the most powerful form of womenship comes from consistently showing up with an open heart and a willingness to help others shine.
Houma Nonprofit of the Month: Cherish Times Two
This April, we’re proud to spotlight Cherish Times Two as our Houma Nonprofit of the Month—an organization rooted in compassion, lived experience, and a commitment to supporting children and families navigating life’s most challenging transitions.
Founded by Cherry and Sherry Wilmore, twin sisters whose personal connection to the foster care system fuels their mission, Cherish Times Two exists to empower vulnerable populations and help them build self-sufficiency and resilience. Their work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves the resources and support to move through life’s changes with dignity, confidence, and community.
In honor of Foster Care Awareness Month in May, we are collecting donations to support foster youth and foster families. These gifts go a long way in showing appreciation and providing comfort to those who often go unseen.
How You Can Help:
We’ll be collecting the following donation items at EHL Houma events throughout April:
🎁 Gift cards (restaurants, stores, or self-care experiences)
🧼 Spa gift sets
🖼️ Picture frames (for foster families to preserve memories)
🧸 Pillows & weighted blankets
🎨 Art supplies & journals
📚 Storybooks
🍪 Individually packaged snacks
🧳 Duffel bags or small luggage for foster youth
Get Involved:
📍 Learn more about their mission: Cherish Times Two Website
📘 Follow on Facebook: Cherish Times Two Facebook
Let’s come together to support this incredible organization and the foster families and children they serve. Your generosity can make a powerful impact.
Houma Woman of the Month: Kathryn Williams
We’re excited to celebrate Kathryn Williams as our EmpowerHER Life Woman of the Month for April in Houma! From the start, Kathryn has been a vibrant part of the EHL community, known for her steady support, infectious positivity, and creative energy.
As the owner of Southern Touch Designs, LLC, Kathryn brings her passion to life through adorable and original T-shirt designs that reflect both her artistic talent and her entrepreneurial spirit. She’s constantly working to grow her business, but what makes her truly stand out is how she continues to show up—for herself and for the women around her.
Her commitment to personal growth, paired with her genuine heart for uplifting others, makes her a perfect reflection of what EmpowerHER Life stands for.
Kathryn, thank you for the light you bring to this community. We’re lucky to have you, and we can’t wait to watch your continued growth. Congratulations—you deserve it!
💻 Connect with Kathryn: Southern Touch Designs on Facebook
Northshore Nonprofit of the Month: PWST Women’s Scholarship Fund
This month, we’re honored to highlight the Professional Women of St. Tammany (PWST) Women’s Scholarship Fund as our Northshore Nonprofit of the Month. Rooted in the belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for transformation, PWST is making a lasting impact by investing in women who are determined to create brighter futures for themselves and their families.
Since 2009, PWST has awarded scholarships to deserving women in St. Tammany Parish who are pursuing higher education and striving to reach new milestones in their lives. These scholarships are more than financial support—they’re a recognition of resilience, strength, and drive.
PWST’s scholarship recipients are often women who have:
– Overcome personal and financial obstacles
– Demonstrated leadership in their families, schools, or communities
– Shown commitment to personal and professional growth
The selection committee looks beyond GPAs, considering each applicant’s journey, accomplishments, and contributions. Every scholarship awarded is the result of the generosity of PWST members, sponsors, and supporters who believe in lifting others up and celebrating the extraordinary women among us.
As an EmpowerHER Life community, we are proud to shine a light on the PWST Women’s Scholarship Fund and the lives it continues to change through education, opportunity, and unwavering encouragement.
To learn more or get involved, visit their website or follow along on social media. Let’s continue supporting the women who are building better tomorrows—one scholarship at a time.
Northshore Woman of the Month: Lexi Hartmann
This month, we are proud to celebrate Lexi Hartmann as EmpowerHER Life’s Northshore Woman of the Month. A strategic thinker, marketing expert, and advocate for authentic storytelling, Lexi has played a key role in shaping EHL’s growth both online and off. Through her marketing and consulting services, she has helped us develop a stronger digital presence and refine our strategies for continued expansion.
As the founder of iHartContent, a bilingual marketing agency serving clients in the U.S. and Latin America, Lexi has made it her mission to help purpose-driven creators tell their stories, build their brands, and take ownership of their online presence.
Beyond her work in marketing, Lexi is a passionate advocate for mental health and authenticity in online spaces. As a mother of two young daughters, she understands firsthand the challenges of navigating social media in a way that feels healthy and empowering. She encourages others to move beyond the filters and highlight reels to create a more genuine and supportive online world—especially in the AI era.
Her expertise has been recognized in Forbes, Nasdaq, Motherly, Entreprenista, Thrive Global, Causeartist, and more, and she continues to be a leading voice in AI-driven marketing. Through her course and community, MarketingMasteryAI, she helps women in business embrace Artificial Intelligence with Authentic Intelligence.
We are honored to have Lexi as part of the EmpowerHER Life community and grateful for the impact she continues to make. Her dedication to helping women grow their businesses while staying true to themselves is exactly the kind of leadership we love to celebrate.
Join us in recognizing Lexi for her contributions to EHL and beyond! To learn more about her work, visit iHartContent.
Houma Woman of the Month: Danae Gros
This month, we are thrilled to celebrate Danae Gros as EmpowerHER Life’s Woman of the Month for Houma. A founding member of our community, Danae has been a guiding light and a source of encouragement from the very beginning. Her commitment to uplifting others and fostering a space for growth and healing makes her an incredible role model within our network.
As a devoted wife and mother, Danae pours her heart into everything she does. She is passionate about helping others heal naturally and has dedicated her time and energy to making wellness more accessible through her Neumi business and the quantum energy wellness bed. Her work is transforming lives by offering holistic approaches to health and well-being, proving that healing can come in many forms.
Her dedication to supporting and inspiring those around her has left a lasting impact on our community. Whether through her business, her friendships, or her unwavering belief in the power of women supporting women, Danae embodies what it means to be an EmpowerHER Life leader.
Join us in celebrating Danae and her contributions to our community. To learn more about her work, visit her page here.
Houma Nonprofit of the Month: The Haven – A Safe Space for Survivors
This month, we are honored to spotlight The Haven, a nonprofit that has been a lifeline for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Assumption, Lafourche, and Terrebonne parishes since 1993. The Haven provides emergency shelter, medical care, counseling, and legal assistance to over 500 families every year, helping them rebuild their lives with dignity and support.
Why The Haven’s Work Matters
For survivors of family violence and sexual assault, safety is not guaranteed. Many individuals and families seeking help face immediate danger, and The Haven provides them with a secure place to heal, access critical resources, and reclaim their independence.
What sets The Haven apart is their individualized approach—they work closely with survivors to understand their unique circumstances, break down barriers, and provide the exact support they need to move forward.
How You Can Support The Haven
💜 Attend Their Annual Fundraiser – March 22, 2025
The Haven hosts only one fundraiser per year, and the proceeds are vital to keeping their shelter open and accessible without a waiting list. By attending or spreading the word, you are helping ensure survivors have immediate access to safe housing, advocacy, and life-changing services.
💜 Volunteer Your Time
The Haven welcomes volunteers to assist with various initiatives, including supporting their annual fundraiser. If you’re looking for a way to give back, this is a chance to make a real difference in the lives of those in need.
📍 To learn more about The Haven, their services, and ways to get involved, visit: The Haven on Facebook.
Together, We Can Be a Haven for Those Who Need It Most
Empowering survivors means providing them with safety, resources, and a community that believes in their strength.By supporting The Haven, we are ensuring that no one has to face these challenges alone.
If you’re attending our EmpowerHER Life events this month, we encourage you to spread the word about The Haven’s work and consider getting involved in their mission.