Huami Magazine Milwaukee Dec./Jan. 2025 by Terry Watson

M I LWAU K E E

Dec./Jan. 2025 Vol. 2 Issue 3

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Staying Focused To Finish The Assignment A Letter From The Editor

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

According to the online dictionary www.cambridge.org, the definition of the word distraction is something that prevents someone from giving their attention to something else. Within A Letter from the Editor the context of this definition, my focus is drawn to two words. Prevents and attention. It is my understanding that when we allow ourWhat focus to be captivated by anything than our goals, if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of other your plans, hopes it alsoand prevents from reaching them. toI also dreamsuswouldn’t have a street parkconnect on. Whatthe if word focuseverything with attention, as whatever so does my that you decided tohas putmy offattention, until tomorrow never focushappened? reside. There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. if your last opportunity seemingly I would neverWhat consider myself to be an avid reader. expired I can today? What you do?like coming from someone who only imagine whatwould that sounds publishes magazines for a living, but I’m not. One of the hardest I’ve told that I aoften seem like I doto too much. things for mebeen to do is finish book. I will start read it, and Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm make some pretty good progress through the chapters, and then believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me This nothing happens. For some reason or another, I lose interest. that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would happens to me with each book. There have been times when I if I chose to last sit idle and accept whatnothing. it presented to me. I have be made it to the chapter and then have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. challenge It isisobvious that I must have allowed myself toAbe distracted, to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? and whatever distracted me also took my focus. Our ability If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn to focus on the task at hand has a lot to do with our ability to something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in complete the assignment. It is easier for me to start something return acquire life. like reading a book, but if I lose my focus, my ability to finish or even maintain a reasonable pace can be quite difficult. That has a The best advice ever given to me happened when someone lot to do with my vulnerability to distraction. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only When we allow ourselves to be distracted, we are also robbing hope provided. I have also learned the difference between ourselves of the opportunity to succeed and win. Just like what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with racehorses blindersit applied to direct to what as well.have I compare to knowing whentheir to bevision confident and is happening in front of them, in the race of life, having when to be quiet,metaphorical because blinders such as these may assist someone may get it confused with winning. with being arrogant. God wants totomorrow stay focused on Makeus you Him. By doing today, so, webut allow Him to happen most manage everythingmake else that may importantly it count. try to slow much of Life isour butprogression, a whisper and we must put ourselves in a what really doesn’t matter anyway. to hear it isto In 2025,position I have made a what promise telling us. myself to not be distracted and to stay focused on what God has assigned for me to do.

Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson Writer Dr. Marrissa Dick Alana Allen Terry L. Watson - Deputy Editor Writer Monica Montgomery Writer Writers

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HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

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MILWAUKEE

CONTENTS

Low Country Youth Services

ReZsaun Lewis

On The Cover Caring For and Serving Families

She Empowers

Neka Willis-Dorsey

Milwaukee, WI Opportubities for Emerging Leaders

Milwaukee Youth Council Milwaukee, WI Public Input Sought for Nominees

2025 Black History Month Campaign

Trishonda Roberson

06 07

Becoming A Caregiver

Dr. Demetrius K. Williams

Love and Unity

Community Baptist Church

Learn more about the program that is shaping the lives of young men. MKE Fellows. Milwaukee, WI

25 She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Baby Myonn’e.

26 5

W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

City Of Milwaukee Youth Council Offering Unique Opportunities For Emerging Leaders

Informat ion Obtained from Online Press Release

The emerging leaders on the City of Milwaukee Youth Council get to experience what it’s ACTUALLY like to deliberate on a representative body that serves and advances the interests of city youth. The Youth Council members represent young people in their aldermanic districts, and meet with leaders like the Mayor, Common Council members, School Superintendent, business owners, and community groups to advocate for issues relevant to youth. The body is comprised of 17 members, one from each of the 15 aldermanic districts and two at-large members. This is an outstanding opportunity to serve and to learn – and to earn some money (YC members will be paid $25 for each meeting they attend). Also, serving as a member of the Youth Council provides the opportunity and platform to advocate for issues important to city youth, their peers, families and the wider community. The Youth Council is responsible for an annual allocation of Community Development Block Grant funding, and has previously worked to address reckless driving, vehicle thefts, social media responsibility and more. Common Council President José G. Pérez said youth participation in City of Milwaukee affairs can be a tremendously positive and transformative experience. “Youth Council members have a unique opportunity to listen and learn from elected leaders and city staff members with decades of professional and lived experience, and to work collaboratively to address issues that are most important to them,” President Pérez said. “With that perspective, as they grow older and pursue their life’s ambition (possibly even including politics), they can have a baseline of information and understanding to help better impact policy, in whatever area they choose.” Youth Council seeking leaders “I strongly encourage Milwaukee teens to explore what the Youth Council has to offer them,” he said. Alderwoman Sharlen P. Moore, who has an extensive background working with teens as part of the non-profit Urban Underground, has been serving as an advisor to the Youth Council and is dedicated to helping attract and mentor future Youth Council members. “I am so honored to work with such a diverse and dedicated set of youth leaders who are committed to learning about city government and making a difference in the lives of their peers,” Alderwoman Moore said. “We want adequate representation and encourage eligible youth residents to apply to fill any open seats. Our city needs YOU!” Youth Council members must live in the City of Milwaukee, and be between the ages of 14-18 with the time, energy, and passion to work for change. If you are interested in becoming a Youth Council member – or know someone who is a great candidate, have them apply online at http://city.milwaukee.gov/youthcouncil. For additional questions, please call City Clerk Jim Owczarski at 414-286-2998. h

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W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

Public Input Sought for Nominees for Milwaukee’s 2025 Black History Month Campaign

Informat ion Obtained from Online Press Release

Organizers of the 2025 City of Milwaukee 28 Days of Black History campaign are asking members of the public to nominate who they believe should be honored as Milwaukee Black history makers. The selected honorees will be featured daily on the city website and on the City Channel during February 2025. “We work annually to compile a list of honorees with great care and pride, but we know the public has the ability to bring forth a new group of individuals who have made their mark, big or small, on Milwaukee Black history. We look forward to seeing the nominations and to another great Black History Month celebration in February,” said Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Sharlen Moore, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderman DiAndre Jackson and Alderwoman Larresa Taylor. Black History Month Honorees Nominations will be accepted until the close of business on January 24, 2025, and should be directed to Deborah.Moore2@milwaukee. gov or by phone to 414-286-2206. When submitting nominations, please consult the past honoree listings at milwaukee.gov/CommonCouncil/Initiatives/29daysofblackhistory (to avoid duplication/repetition), and please provide qualifications and reasoning for the nomination. The Black History campaign, about to enter its ninth year, is designed to celebrate Milwaukee’s Black history and recognize those who have made positive contributions thereto. The project ends each year with a festive public program and celebration at City Hall. h

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www.nubianromance.com Milwaukee - Dec./Jan. 2025

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Willis-Dorsey

Neka’s Funeral & Cremation Services By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Neka Willis-Dorsey

Neka Willis-Dorsey, who is well known as “Neka,” is making quite an impression in the business sector within the city of Milwaukee, WI. As the owner and founder of Neka’s Funeral & Cremation Services, she leads a team of dedicated professionals who are equally committed to serving families during one of their most difficult moments. Neka’s Funeral & Cremation Services provides affordable, exquisite services executed with love, experience, and compassion. “We have several package options that celebrate everyone’s life and legacy. We offer Horse-drawn Carriages, custom caskets, elite vehicle options, saxophonists, hospice massages, and more,” Neka says. Neka shares that her testimony is one of perseverance. “My father was constantly incarcerated, and I was raised by my Mother, who was a single parent. I encountered difficulties early on in life, including teen pregnancy,” she says. Still, she found a way to persevere and continues to do so. Neka is a mother of seven, three biological children and four bonus children. Neka is also a proud “Yaya”, which means “Grandma” in Greek. Being a black woman in what was once a maledominated field, she says that many doubted she would survive. Neka obtained her Mortuary degree from Milwaukee Area Technical College for Mortuary Science. She adds, “I began my ministry in Funeral Service in 2007. I prayed and asked God to show me what I should go back to school for. I asked him to show me in a dream. That night, I dreamed I was standing in front of a group of people, wearing all black with a gold name badge on. The badge read, “Licensed Funeral Director”. I woke up and Googled the duties of a Funeral Director. It was a lot of Science, which I have always loved. I was immediately sold and began my journey in the field of Mortuary Science that week.”

“I began my ministry in Funeral Service in 2007. I prayed and asked God to show me what I should go back to school for. I asked him to show me in a dream.”

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When asked what she loves most about her profession, Neka says it’s the Science of Embalming. “It relaxes and humbles me at the same time. I love the people I serve. I also love that each one is uniquely complicated and different. I love getting the deceased to their place of rest, as well as helping the grieving get to their place of healing by executing a service for their loved ones. I’m inspired by those I serve. Watching countless families weep during some of the most trying times of their lives is empowering and a testimony to how God continues to trust in me with His people.” Understandably, Neka credits her Mother for having the biggest impact on her life. She adds, “I witnessed her strength on full display while battling heart disease for 20 years. She battled gracefully and sometimes quietly. She wore her heart on her sleeves and would be everything to anyone who needed her. She was strong, taught me to be strong, and helped me understand how to acknowledge weakness by taking my troubles to God,” Neka says. As she fully believes that she has been handpicked and chosen by God to serve his people, Neka also knows her assignment comes with a lot of responsibility. She says, “Unlike my competitors, my assignment is first to take care of His people instead of focusing on highprofit margins. I stay in constant prayer to remind myself of that. As long as I take care of God’s people with integrity and provide a firstclass service, God will add to the increase.” For others who are considering following in her path, Neka advises them to pray about it first. “I would also tell them to evaluate their hearts to make sure they have a servant’s heart. This is a demanding career. There are a lot of times you will feel tired in your body, mind, and spirit. Only what you do for Christ will last. After that, do the work and take the steps to learn how to serve.”

Neka’s Funeral & Cremation Services 4803 W. Burleigh Street Milwaukee, WI 53210 www.nekasfuneralhome.com 414-414-6352

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Moving ahead, Neka has plans to share with others what an overcomer looks like. She says, “I want to excite and encourage others who look like me to enter the industry that I am a part of. I also pray for the opportunity to leave a legacy filled with love and generational wealth for our people.” h

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Trishonda Roberson She Empowers, Inc By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Neka Willis-Dorsey

Trishonda Roberson of Raleigh, NC, describes herself as simply a woman from a small town with a big heart and an even bigger vision for her community. She is deeply rooted in her faith as a lover of Jesus, and her life reflects her commitment to serving others. Trishonda is the founder and CEO of She Empowers, a nonprofit dedicated to the wholistic development of women. She is also the Executive Director of The REACH Center located in Rocky Mount, NC, which provides essential services related to housing, hunger, health, and healing. Through her leadership and passion, Trishonda is deeply committed to empowering women and serving her community. Trishonda holds a certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University and is a member of the NC Rural Economic Development Institute. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Christian Community Development Association and provides coaching to pastors and leaders through the Iwa Collaborative. Before transitioning to the nonprofit sector, Trishonda spent over 15 years as a Registered Nurse, specializing in mental health and substance abuse. She is a graduate of Fruitland Bible College, where she received a certificate in Christian Ministry, and she currently serves as a community pastor at Word Tabernacle Church in Rocky Mount under the leadership of Pastor James D. Gailliard. As a daughter, caregiver, pastor, author, nonprofit director, and coach, Trishonda wears many hats. She is passionate about empowering others and making a lasting impact on her community through her various roles. Her work is driven by her deep love for people and her desire to see them grow and thrive. She Empowers began as a result of Trishonda spending much of her career as a Registered Nurse specializing in mental health and substance abuse. She says, “I was always drawn to those who felt lost, without purpose, and who often sought validation through unhealthy relationships. I especially connected with women struggling with unhealthy coping mechanisms such as food, alcohol, sex, and peoplepleasing—because I had faced those same challenges in my own life. In 2014, I realized that God was calling me to serve women in a deeper way beyond the walls of the nursing floor. That calling led to the creation of She Empowers.”

Trishonda says the vision behind She Empowers is simple: “To impact and transform the world, one woman at a time.” She adds, “We achieve this by equipping women with tools and strategies that focus on interpersonal skills, relationship building, spiritual and leadership growth, and economic sustainability. She Empowers is more than a program; it’s a mission to see women live empowered, purposeful lives.” One of its key initiatives of She Empowers is She Leads Well (SLW), which focuses on helping women address and overcome challenges in their spiritual and mental well-being. Trishonda says, “As women, we often juggle multiple roles and put on a brave face, even when we’re struggling internally. Busy schedules can leave little room to pause and recharge. Our SLW wellness retreats are intentionally created to provide a space for reflection, rest, and renewal. These retreats offer women the opportunity to embrace silence and solitude, strengthening their connection with God and their sense of self.” In addition to retreats, their program offers one-on-one coaching for women eager to understand how God has uniquely designed them. Using a variety of assessment tools, they help women uncover their spiritual gifts, align those gifts with their passions, and discover their God-given purpose. Through the process of inner healing, Trishonda and her team also assist women in identifying and overcoming past hurts and traumas. For those seeking group support, their I Am Thirty-One program is a 6-week group coaching experience that fosters growth, healing, and empowerment within a supportive community.

“I especially connected with women struggling with unhealthy coping mechanisms such as food, alcohol, sex, and people-pleasing—because I had faced those same challenges in my own life.”

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Trishonda adds that Economic sustainability is a core aspect of their mission, with a focus on guiding individuals through the process of launching and managing businesses, especially nonprofits. “In partnership with NC IDEA, we hosted our first 8-week entrepreneurial cohort in Halifax County. This program was specifically designed to help women transform their mindset, equipping them to achieve success in both their business endeavors and personal growth.” While She Empowers primary focus is on empowering women, they have recently introduced products and services designed to benefit women, men, and youth alike. Their Next Level Leadership Luncheon is tailored for high school and college students, with an emphasis on fostering personal growth and development. Additionally, our Power Juice line features freshly cold-pressed juices infused with sea moss, a nutrient-rich superfood known for its numerous health benefits. When asked what she loves most about her program, Trishonda says it’s the opportunity to witness the transformation that occurs when her clients realize their worth, embrace their unique gifts, and step into their God-given purpose. She says, “It’s incredibly fulfilling to guide women as they overcome challenges, heal from past wounds, and gain clarity about their goals. Seeing them grow in confidence, build meaningful connections, and achieve breakthroughs in their personal and professional lives inspires me daily. Empowering women to thrive not only changes their lives but also creates a ripple effect that positively impacts their families, communities, and beyond.” As an African-American woman leading a woman-focused organization, Trishonda has faced several challenges along the way. One of the biggest hurdles she shares has been overcoming biases and stereotypes that sometimes come with being both a woman and a minority in leadership.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to guide women as they overcome challenges, heal from past wounds, and gain clarity about their goals. Seeing them grow in confidence, build meaningful connections, and achieve breakthroughs in their personal and professional lives inspires me daily.”

Like many small businesses, funding the vision has been a significant challenge. She adds that turning big ideas into reality requires financial resources, and securing funding while building credibility has been an uphill climb. Additionally, finding the right partners and supporters—those who truly align with the mission and values of the organization—has required discernment and perseverance. Despite these challenges, Trishonda admits that she has learned to lean on faith, stay resilient, and keep pushing forward, knowing that the work her program does has the potential to create a lasting impact in the lives of women and the broader community. Trishonda credits her parents with being the greatest inspiration and the most significant influence in her life. She shares their unwavering dedication and strong work ethic, even in the face of challenges, taught her the values of perseverance and resourcefulness. “They showed me how to take what little we had and make it work, always emphasizing the importance of gratitude and resilience,” she says. Moving forward, Trishonda plans for She Empowers to focus on growth, impact, and long-term sustainability. “I aim to expand our wellness retreats, coaching programs, and leadership initiatives to reach more women, particularly in underserved communities. This includes offering both in-person and virtual options to make our services more accessible to a wider audience. She also plans to increase the financial sustainability of She Empowers by diversifying its funding sources, strengthening its community presence, and providing leadership development for herself and the women the program serves. h

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Lowcountry Youth Services By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Neka Willis-Dorsey

ReZsaun Lewis is the Executive Director of Lowcountry Youth Services. Lowcountry Youth Services is a youth development youth engagement organization that specializes in creating and implementing mentoring programs in the TriCounty area. Lowcountry Youth Services, originally Connections and You, Inc., was founded in October 2008 by Ricardo Perry in Hanahan. The aim was to create the Bennie Warren home for boys, but challenges led to the creation of the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Club (DGC) instead. DGC began in 2010 with 12 boys and quickly grew, expanding into multiple chapters by 2013. By 2017, DGC became a nonprofit, merging its branches into one. Since its start, DGC has mentored over 350 boys. ReZsaun says, “Our mentoring programs provide a platform for young people to build positive connections with adults and peers through youth empowerment groups. Our organization implements an evidence-based curriculum from the Council for Boys and Young Men and The Girls’ Circle to give participants a chance to learn meaningfully about themselves and the world around them.” When describing who ReZsaun is, there are a number of adjectives to choose from. He is a husband, father, sports fanatic, hip-hop head, and child of God. He is also a veteran of the United States Army and a proud native of the North Charleston community. He came on board as a member of Lowcountry Youth Services in 2016 and became the Executive Director in 2019. “Our goal is to help youth get attached to the village. An old African proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child”. The village is our community. We take a lot of pride in building the village around the people in our community,” he says.

“Our goal is to help youth get attached to the village. An old African proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child”. The village is our community. We take a lot of pride in building the village around the people in our community.”

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Before coming to Lowcountry Youth Services, ReZsaun worked as an elementary school’s fourth- and fifth-grade teacher. He also worked with the afterschool program at the same school. ReZsaun soon learned that the students needed more, particularly the young men in his school. He would work with other educators to create a program for young men called the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Society at St. Stephen Elementary School. The program would become a success, and ReZsaun knew there was more work for him to do, particularly in the realm of mentorship. This is how he would arrive at Lowcountry Youth Services. Today, Lowcountry Youth Services has established a Distinguished Gentlemen’s Club and several other programs, including Queens’ Being, Young Men Rise, Girls On The Rise, and the Young Leaders Institute. When asked what he loves most about what he does, ReZsaun says he loves the relationships that he is able to build in his community. “I love being able to see the city in which I grew up in a different light. I love the kids and the relationships that I have with them. Our organization serves over 500 kids on an annual basis, and I have a hand in each and every activity. Being able to see those kids go from as young as third grade up to graduation and beyond is really dope. I can’t do it without the help of our amazing staff. We have six paid staff members and 40 volunteer staff members. These include teachers, military members, engineers, entrepreneurs, news anchors, and more. They are so humble and inspirational. They keep me grounded and drive me to keep going,” he says.

In addition to having the support of his staff, ReZsaun credits a few others who have greatly impacted his life and career. “I had a teacher named Mrs. Mary Ann Williams. She was my sixth-grade chorus teacher. She took this kid (me) who had no guidance and no direction and really helped me to find something that I really loved, which was music, and taught me how to cultivate that skill. She also taught me the importance of leadership and why it is important to stand out even when you stand alone and to create spaces for other people.” ReZsaun also credits his wife, Angela, for inspiring him. “My wife encourages me to be a better version of myself each day.” He also finds inspiration in the lives of his four daughters and two sons, along with many others. It sounds like there is never a dull moment in ReZsaun’s household.

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As the Executive Director of Lowcountry Youth Services, he has faced a few challenges. One is funding. “Funding for organizations led by Brown and Black people is very hard to find. Not having the funds can be very frustrating because there is so much that we want to do. I manage these challenges by maximizing whatever is in my capacity. If we can’t do it yet, then we can’t do it yet, but we keep it on our dream board. Many kids who can benefit from an organization like ours are being left behind, but we can’t reach them due to a lack of funding. That is very frustrating,” ReZsaun shares. Looking ahead, ReZsaun appears to be focused on positioning Lowcountry Youth Services for success. “We have just launched a statewide mentor network organization called South Carolina Mentors, which is working to bring the entire state on to one accord in terms of what mentorship is. This network will allow us to advocate on a state level for more dollars to go towards preventative measures and more,” he says. For youth in North Charleston and the Lowcountry, ReZsaun is looking to work with you. “If you’re a young person looking for structured support and guidance, we’ve got you covered. We’re confident that every child can reach their full potential with the right opportunities and support. So why wait? Join us today, and let’s unlock your full potential together!” h

Lowcountry Youth Services 5675 Woodbine Avenue Hanahan, SC 29406 www.lowcountryyouth.org 843-375-6474

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Huami Magazine Community Awards 2025 Charlotte Marriott Center City - Charlotte, NC June 7th, 2025

We are coming to the Queen City of Charlotte, NC. Please mark your calendars for June 7th, 2025, as the Huami Magazine Community Awards will take place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Following up on our first gala of 2023, we are excited for the opportunity to present Black Excellence from various parts of the Huami Magazine network, which covers more than 23 states around the country. Community Leaders, Business Leaders, and NonProfit Organizations will be honored and recognized for the great work they have done and continue to do in their respective communities. There will also be some great speakers, good food, and entertainment. This a formal, black tie event, and one that you don’t want to miss.

The evening will begin with a Red Carpet Reception at 5:30 pm. The Gala Reception will start at 6:30pm For more information, please call 336-340-7844. Seating is limited and group packages are available. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the link listed below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For sponsorship information, please send a detailed email to mykelmediaco@gmail.com h

www.read-huamimagazine.com/awards-gala-2025

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Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother By Terry L. Watson

CHAPTER NINE: The Success of Caregiving Requires Unity For me, and I can only speak for myself, the impact of the stroke that my mother suffered has not only affected my mother, it has also affected many others. Its devastation has also pierced into the hearts of every member of my family, including myself. I have equated the word stroke with loss, meaning that the first things that come to mind when I hear the word stroke are all of the things that our family has lost as a result of my mother’s stroke. I must admit there are also some feelings of guilt that surface as well. I often ask myself what I could have done to prevent my mother from suffering such a catastrophic and life-changing event. Just as often as I ask that question, the answer that I often arrive at is not too much. My mother is her own person, and how she lived her life definitely played a role in her health. She was raised in a traditional food and diet culture, many of which I have learned are not good ones. In addition to bad eating habits, I believe she and we (our family) could have done more to prevent her stroke. Knowing this, I am very conscious about how I live and my food choices. While the medical community often states that many of the known health ailments are hereditary, I personally believe that most ailments can be eliminated and prevented by the decisions we make.

Now, I don’t want to mislead anyone by sounding like a critic of any particular diet. To be honest my food selections are quite interesting as well. Food is a pleasure that I love very much, and I wish I had all of the answers, but I do not. What I do know is the diet my mother enjoyed led to many other complications, and if she had been made aware of what she knew, well, things could have been different. As the holiday season wraps up, I have endured yet another season of not having my mother lead the way. The conclusion of this season also signifies the adjustment that our family continues to make. Amazingly, this year, I found myself in a happy place. I believe that my happiness has a lot to do with my mother being happy and her understanding that in spite of all the changes that have happened, love is still present. I thank God for that because it truly hasn’t been easy.

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My advice to other families who may find themselves in a similar place is to never stop working to find love in the midst of the storm. The realization of what a stroke does can be a very daunting experience, and it can also create some division within families. I have seen this first hand, and through conversations with other families in the same situation, I learned that it does happen. However, that doesn’t mean that as a family, the effort to stay united and focused on caring for our loved ones should cease. On the contrary, it should encourage us to work even harder to find ways to love each other. Oh, if life could have been much easier. Each Christmas, since becoming my mother’s primary caregiver, I have tried my best to give her a memorable experience. This is a similar practice that I’ve repeated for every holiday, including her birthday. Getting each family member to participate isn’t always easy and has been frustrating. Ultimately, when everyone is around my mother while she is enjoying herself, it makes it all worth it. It is the opportunity to love on Mom and see her enjoy herself with her family that lets me know that she feels our love. While she has lost a few steps along the way, our ability to unite even for one day appears to make a huge difference. h

I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You!

W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

Rev. Dr. Demetrius K. Williams

Community Baptist Church of Greater Milwaukee taught from 1996–2006. Since relocating to Milwaukee in 2006 after the Katrina hurricane, he has served as an Adjunct Professor in theology at Marquette University and continues to teach as an Adjunct Professor at the Central Baptist Theological School (Shawnee, KS) at its Milwaukee center. He also currently teaches at UW-Milwaukee in the Comparative Literature department and in the Religious Studies program. On January 2, 2009 Dr. Williams began his pastorate of the Community Baptist Church of Greater Milwaukee.

Informat ion Obtained from Online Press Release

Rev. Dr. Demetrius K. Williams was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was the last of eight children born to Timothy and Bessie Williams Sr. He comes from a tradition of Baptist ministers beginning with his paternal great-grandfather, the late Rev. Joshua Williams and his two sons, the late Rev. Oliver Williams (his grandfather), the founding pastor of the Unity Missionary Baptist Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the late Rev. Robert Williams. In addition, his maternal Uncle, the late Rev. Herman Pryor, Sr., was the founding pastor of the Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was under his uncle’s ministry that Dr. Williams received his call to ministry and was licensed to preach. It was also within the black Baptist religious tradition that his theological and spiritual formation was developed. It was this religious foundation and that of his family that prepared Dr. Williams to pursue higher education in order to equip him for a learned ministry. Receiving his call to ministry in 1981, licensed in 1982, and ordained in 1988, Dr. Williams has over 30 years of ministerial experience. He has served as senior pastor of the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Dorchester, MA from 1992-1996 and as interim pastor at the Beecher Memorial UCC church, New Orleans, LA from 2000-03. He has also served as a supply preacher for several churches in the New Orleans area. In his pursuit of higher education Dr. Williams received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in Comparative Religion in 1986, a Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) in 1988 and a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in 1990, both from Harvard Divinity School. He completed in 1997 a Doctor of Theology degree (Th.D.) also from Harvard Divinity School. Dr. Williams was formerly an Associate Professor in the Department of Classical Studies and Director of the Religious Studies Program at Tulane University, New Orleans, where he

Besides service to the faith and academic communities, Dr. Williams has also contributed to the scholarly community publishing several articles in New Testament studies and in African American Biblical interpretation. His first book based on his dissertation, “Enemies of the Cross of Christ”: The Terminology of the Cross and Conflict in Philippians, was published by Sheffield Academic Press in 2002. His second book, dealing with and affirming women in the preaching and pastoral ministries, “An End to This Strife: The Politics of Gender in African American Churches, was published in 2004 by Fortress Press. In addition to his past and recent literary works, Dr. Williams was invited by Duke Divinity School to offer the Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Lecture Series (April 1-2, 2008), honoring him for his dual work and calling as both a scholar and a minister. Dr. Williams is married to the former Robin R. Rucker. Mrs. Robin R. Williams is also a native Milwaukeean. She received her Christian formation at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, where her mother, Mrs. Vera Rucker, was a faithful and dedicated member and where Robin sang in the choir and participated in other youth related church activities. Robin graduated from John Marshall High School in 1983 and matriculated soon thereafter to Southern University of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Although she has held several positions in the work force from working in the United States Post Office and Marshall & Isley Bank to teaching in the Milwaukee Public Schools, she is now a stay-at-home mother, which allows her the freedom not only to serve her immediate family’s needs, but also to volunteer time for service to the church and community. Robin’s driving passion is cooking and entertaining guests. Inheriting these qualities from her late mother, Robin loves to cook “down home” meals at any occasion to share with family and friends. At any time, family members, church members and friends might receive a call to “come get a piece of cake” or a dinner plate. Although she sings in the CBCGM Choir, she considers the gift of hospitality and cooking, and providing a stable and loving home for her husband and children as her own special calling and ministry. Their two children, Demetria Taylor and Demetrius Kelvin II, both love church, participating in Sunday School, youth related church activities, and especially the BLAST Bible Study. To be sure, we seek to model the values of family, dedication to the church and community, and faithful service in the goal of building God’s kingdom. h

W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

MKE FELLOWS Shaping The Lives of Young Men Informat ion Obtained from Online Press Release

The goal was to increase the number of interns from 20 to 40 in 2016, and a collaboration was created with Quarles & Brady, The Greater Milwaukee Committee, ALIVE, Inc., and ReDonna Rodgers to pursue a more aggressive effort in light of the expanded program. This effort gained broad public support, including that of Wisconsin Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch and Mayor Tom Barrett of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The MKE Fellows initiative was created in 2012 to encourage talented young students from Milwaukee to pursue and complete their college education and serve as a vehicle to attract African American college graduates to return to the Greater Milwaukee area. Why Fellows The MKE Fellows initiative was created in 2012 to encourage talented young students from Milwaukee to pursue and complete their college education and serve as a vehicle to attract African American college graduates to return to the Greater Milwaukee area. The idea was initially developed by a group of business people soliciting students, principally from Milwaukee schools, to attend Morehouse College. The then superintendent of schools for Milwaukee, Dr. Greg Thornton, was highly supportive of this initiative and it was launched with a lunch in Milwaukee with Henry and Billye Aaron. Mrs. Aaron is a trustee at Morehouse College. A group of civic leaders was convened and the goal was to raise enough to support the academic costs of students at about $25,000 per year. Approximately $900,000 was raised for the first cohort of ten students. Dr. Robert Franklin, then president of Morehouse, was involved in the initial fundraising effort. That support continues with the present President of Morehouse – Dr. David A. Thomas. Shortly thereafter some additional dollars were raised for subsequent cohorts. Critical to the launch of this effort were three individuals who not only personally contributed but solicited others — Those included three business executives, Skip Poliner, Cory Nettles and Charles Harvey. Initially, the effort was focused on getting these talented students into a high performing environment on the assumption that it would expand their horizons — it has done just that.

In order for the process to be effective, it was concluded that the involvement of the students had to be broader, including an effort to promote their academic achievement, providing them with role models of minority professionals who have successfully entered and performed well in the workplace. MKE Fellows also developed a set of social activities to provide a positive view of the City of Milwaukee, and to ensure a better h matching of their skills relative to possible internships.

Our Core Pillars Internships & Job Experiences Career & Professional Development Mentorship Civic Engagement

It soon became clear that as part of this it was also important to add components because the students’ ability to perform is impacted by multiple matters. Therefore, a summer internship initiative was added in 2015 and 20 students participated in internships with companies. Those interns had remarkable performance and as a result of that, a number of things occurred (see year-end 2015 employer survey report of Greater Milwaukee Committee). Students outside of Morehouse wanted to have the benefit of this experience and so the number of schools was expanded to over twenty (20) colleges. Milwaukee - Dec./Jan. 2025

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