Desiree Allums

Northshore Nonprofit of the Month: Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West

This month, we’re celebrating Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West—an organization that brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.

For decades, Habitat has worked to make affordable housing a reality for local families. Their projects rely on the power of volunteers, the generosity of donors, and the belief that everyone deserves a safe, stable place to live.

Join Us for Women Build Day

EmpowerHER Life is proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity for a special Women Build Day on Wednesday, November 13, from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM.

This event gives women the chance to roll up their sleeves, pick up a hammer, and make a tangible difference in the lives of local families. No experience is needed—just a willing heart and a desire to help.

Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, November 13

  • Time: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Address: Provided upon registration

  • Donation: $30 per participant

Your $30 donation helps fund the build and supports Habitat’s mission of providing affordable housing across St. Tammany Parish.

To register and make your donation, visit the link below and select “Individual Donation” at the bottom of the page:
Make Your Women Build Donation

Why Women Build Matters

Women Build is about more than construction. It’s about confidence, collaboration, and community. It empowers women to learn new skills, strengthen bonds, and create lasting change—one home at a time.

When women come together with purpose, the impact reaches far beyond the walls they help build. It creates stability, independence, and the chance for another family to thrive.

Get Involved

Whether you join the build, donate, or share the mission, your support helps Habitat continue their work across the Northshore.

Learn more about upcoming builds, volunteer opportunities, and Habitat’s community impact by visiting their website or following them on social media.

Let’s build something that lasts—together.

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Desiree Allums

Houma Nonprofit of the Month: Walk With Grace

This month, we’re proud to honor Walk With Grace, a local nonprofit built on compassion, remembrance, and community.

Walk With Grace supports families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. Their mission is to provide comfort, understanding, and connection to those navigating one of life’s deepest heartbreaks.

What They Do

Walk With Grace offers a range of services to help families through grief and healing:

  • Weighted hearts given to mothers after stillbirth or infant loss

  • Memorial gowns for burial services

  • Resources for families experiencing miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or other forms of loss

  • Monthly support groups held on the first Monday of each month at the Main Library in Houma

  • An annual awareness event that honors families, educates the community, and reminds grieving parents they are not alone

Through every act of kindness, Walk With Grace ensures that no family faces this journey in silence.

How You Can Support

The simplest way to help is to spread the word. Follow, like, and share their page to connect more families with the support they need:
Walk With Grace on Facebook

If you feel led to give, donations can be made directly through their page. Every contribution helps fund resources, memorial gifts, and community events that bring light and comfort to families in grief.

Upcoming Event: A Table of Grace Luncheon

You can also show your support in person by attending A Table of Grace Luncheon, hosted by Walk With Grace.
This event raises funds and awareness for families who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss while creating a safe space for remembrance and connection.

Learn more or purchase tickets here:
Walk With Grace Presents: A Table of Grace Luncheon

Why We Chose Walk With Grace

Walk With Grace gives love where there is loss and hope where there is heartbreak. They remind us that healing happens in community — through shared stories, quiet support, and the simple act of remembering together.

To every family who has walked this path, your story matters. And thanks to organizations like Walk With Grace, you never have to walk it alone.

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Desiree Allums

Northshore Nonprofit of the Month: Compassionate Burials for Indigent Babies (CBIB)

CBIB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to giving forgotten infants a dignified farewell and offering grieving families the closure they deserve. Each life is sacred — even the briefest ones. Through respectful burials, naming ceremonies, and moments of recognition, CBIB ensures no child’s existence goes unnoticed.

Founded in 2007, CBIB emerged from one woman’s heartbreak and unwavering compassion. After losing her own baby to miscarriage and discovering her child had been discarded without burial, she vowed to ensure every life—even the littlest—would be honored.

Their Work in Action

  • Respectful burials for abandoned or unclaimed infants

  • Naming ceremonies for babies who arrive without names or families, honoring their humanity and legacy

  • Advocacy for meaningful legislation, including the Compassionate Burials Option Act, giving parents the right to bury miscarried infants instead of having them discarded as medical waste

  • Awareness of Louisiana’s Safe Haven Law, ensuring mothers know they can safely surrender newborns without judgment or legal risk

How You Can Support CBIB

Donate: Every dollar helps provide essential burial services and respectful ceremonies.
Join the 50/50 Raffle: Support the cause and enter for a chance to win.
Attend the Fundraising Event: Come together to lift up CBIB’s mission and connect as a community.

Why We Chose CBIB

This nonprofit brings dignity to those most forgotten and comfort to families in unimaginable pain. CBIB reminds us that every life—regardless of length—matters. Their work aligns with our belief that compassion, action, and heart can change lives.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Learn more about CBIB’s mission, volunteer opportunities, and how to donate by visiting cbibinc.com. Let’s be the voice for the voiceless, together.

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Desiree Allums

Northshore Nonprofit of the Month: Brave Heart Louisiana

This month, we’re honored to shine a spotlight on Brave Heart Louisiana, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing comfort and hope to children and youth navigating one of the hardest transitions of their lives—entering or leaving foster care.

Since 2004, Brave Heart has worked to improve the quality of life for children removed from abusive or neglectful homes. Their mission is rooted in compassion and action, providing tangible reminders that these children are seen, valued, and supported. Whether it’s through comfort items, school supplies, or hygiene kits, Brave Heart ensures each child feels cared for during times of uncertainty.

How We’re Supporting Brave Heart

As part of our August Elevate & Connect event on August 21, we will be collecting donated items to directly support Brave Heart’s programs.

These items will go into school supply packs and hygiene bags for boys and girls of all ages in foster care.

Examples of needed items include:

School Supplies

  • Colors (24 count)

  • Erasers

  • Glue

  • Pencils (3–5)

  • Pencil sharpeners

  • Scissors

  • Notebooks

  • Calculators

  • Colored pencils

  • Rulers

Hygiene Bags – Girls

  • Shampoo/Conditioner or 2-in-1 Shampoo

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Soap or body wash

  • Lotion

  • Deodorant (for older girls)

  • Feminine products

Hygiene Bags – Boys

  • Shampoo/Conditioner or 3-in-1 Shampoo/Body Wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Soap or body wash

  • Brush or comb

  • Deodorant (for older boys)

  • Floss or hand sanitizer

For complete age-specific lists, visit Brave Heart online at braveheartchildren.org or on Facebook at Brave Heart Louisiana.

Why This Matters

When a child enters foster care, they often arrive with little more than the clothes they’re wearing. Brave Heart steps in to provide not just essentials, but also dignity, comfort, and a sense of normalcy.

By donating, you’re giving more than supplies—you’re giving reassurance to a child who may be feeling lost and alone.

Join Us in Making a Difference
Bring your donation to our August 21 Elevate & Connect event and help us show these children that their community cares.

Together, we can deliver more than items—we can deliver hope.

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Desiree Allums

Summer Food Drive – Here’s How to Help (and How to Get Help!)

Summer should be a season of rest—not stress.

But for many families, school breaks mean one thing: fewer meals.

That’s why we’re coming together across all cities for a Summer Food Drive Distribution Day—an effort to provide free bags of non-perishable food to families who need a little extra help right now.

Here’s what you need to know:

🗓 Date: Wednesday, July 17
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: A+ Help – 606 Lafitte St, Mandeville, LA 70448

No registration required. Just come as you are.
First come, first served while supplies last.

Whether you’re picking up a bag for your own family or helping spread the word, your presence matters. One bag can ease a parent’s worry. One meal can bring relief to a hungry child.

Let’s make this summer a little lighter—together.

Mes de la Comunidad: Día de Distribución de la Colecta de Alimentos de Verano

El verano debe ser una temporada de descanso, no de preocupación.

Para muchas familias, las vacaciones escolares significan una cosa: menos comidas disponibles.

Por eso nos estamos uniendo en todas las ciudades para el Día de Distribución de la Colecta de Alimentos de Verano—una iniciativa para entregar bolsas gratuitas de alimentos no perecederos a familias que necesitan un poco de apoyo.

Detalles del evento:

🗓 Fecha: Miércoles 17 de julio
🕙 Hora: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Ubicación: A+ Help – 606 Lafitte St, Mandeville, LA 70448

No necesitas registrarte.
Entrega por orden de llegada hasta agotar existencias.

Ya sea que vengas por ayuda o para compartir esta información con alguien que lo necesite, estás haciendo una diferencia. Una bolsa puede aliviar el estrés de una familia. Una comida puede marcar la diferencia para un niño.

Este verano, apoyémonos unos a otros.

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Desiree Allums

Summer Food Drive – Supporting Local Families in Need

Summer is supposed to be carefree.

But for many local families, it’s the hardest season of the year.

When school lets out, thousands of children lose access to reliable meals. That school lunch or breakfast many of us took for granted? For some, it’s the only full meal they get in a day.

That’s why we’re stepping in.

From June 6 to July 7, we’re rallying our community for a Summer Food Drive focused on filling that gap. This isn’t about charity. It’s about responsibility. It’s about being the safety net when systems fall short.

We’re collecting non-perishable, shelf-stable foods that are nutrient-rich, kid-friendly, and easy to prepare. These donations will be distributed directly to families who need them on Wednesday, July 17, right here in Mandeville.

What we’re looking for:

  • Peanut butter

  • Canned tuna, chicken, and stew

  • Canned fruit and vegetables

  • Whole grain pasta, brown rice, oats

  • Shelf-stable milk and milk alternatives

  • Granola bars, ready-to-eat cereals

  • Dried fruits, nuts, and seeds

  • Cooking oil, broths, spices

Pop-top cans and no-cook items are especially helpful. We’re thinking practically about how families will use these foods—especially those without consistent access to kitchens or equipment.

Drop-off locations:
You can bring your items to any of the following places:

  • A+ Help – 606 Lafitte St, Mandeville

  • Turgeau’s – 207 N New Hampshire St, Covington

  • Hat Haus – 1814 N Causeway Blvd Suite 3, Mandeville

  • Pink Magnolia – 1200 W Causeway Approach Ste 12, Mandeville

Every can, every box, every bag matters.

This drive was born out of community. No big organization behind it. Just people who saw a need and decided to meet it—together.

We know food insecurity isn’t just a holiday-season issue. It’s a year-round reality. And summer is when the cracks in the system show most clearly.

Let’s not look away.

Let’s fill bellies. Let’s lift burdens. Let’s show up for each other.

Because when we say “no child should go hungry,” we mean it.

Donations accepted June 6–July 7. Distribution Day: July 17.

Join us.

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Desiree Allums

Nonprofit of the Month: UNBRANDED

In May, EmpowerHer Life proudly spotlighted Unbranded—a nonprofit doing deeply needed, often overlooked work. Their mission is focused, bold, and powerful: to serve survivors of human trafficking who were branded while trapped in “the life.”

Branding is a cruel form of control. It’s not just ink—it’s trauma etched into skin. For survivors, these tattoos are constant reminders of violence and dehumanization. They’re often marks of “ownership,” imposed by traffickers, gangs, or pimps. Some resemble barcodes. Others are initials, crowns, or currency symbols. These marks strip people of identity and freedom.

Unbranded offers a way forward.

Using state-of-the-art laser tattoo removal technology, they help survivors reclaim ownership of their own bodies. For many, this isn’t about appearances—it’s about self-worth. It’s about healing. It’s about no longer carrying the physical evidence of someone else’s abuse.

To support this work, we hosted our Pink Power Club fundraiser at Whiskey Tavern, and the night was full of energy, purpose, and generosity.

Together, we raised over $1,000 to help fund tattoo removal services for trafficking survivors.

The room was full of heart. Local businesses came through strong, donating a wide range of raffle items—from beauty services and handmade goods to gift cards and gourmet treats. We can’t thank them enough for their support.

Every dollar raised goes directly toward helping a survivor erase the physical reminders of their trauma.

This isn’t cosmetic. It’s restoration.

Laser tattoo removal is expensive. It can take multiple sessions over months. But it’s one of the most direct and tangible ways we can give someone a fresh start. It tells a survivor: “We see you. You deserve to heal.”

If you missed this event and still want to support the mission, you can:

Unbranded’s impact is quiet but profound. They’re not just removing ink. They’re helping survivors walk into job interviews, family reunions, and everyday life without being re-traumatized by someone else’s mark.

This kind of freedom is hard-won. And it deserves community support.

To everyone who showed up, bought a raffle ticket, donated, or simply shared the story—thank you.

Let’s keep showing up for the work that matters.

Let’s keep supporting healing.

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Desiree Allums

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.

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Desiree Allums

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.

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Desiree Allums

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.

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