The Joan Hollingsworth Story
Embracing the Journey: Joan Hollingsworth's Inspiring Story
Greetings, I'm Joan Hollingsworth, also known as Jo-Ann, and I'm here to share a tale of resilience and community spirit. While I now enjoy retirement as a seasoned grassroots marketing consultant, my journey has been shaped by diverse experiences that have molded me into the person I am today.
Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, my upbringing was infused with the entrepreneurial spirit of my parents, who despite their humble beginnings, achieved remarkable success. Their unwavering determination instilled in me a sense of optimism and possibility from a young age.
Despite encountering early instances of discrimination, including hurtful encounters during my schooling years, I found solace and empowerment through influential figures like Father Groppi and Vel Phillips, whose dedication to civil rights ignited a flame of activism within me.
As I matured, I recognized the importance of voting and combating racism, albeit through some naive and challenging experiences. Nevertheless, each hurdle served as a lesson, shaping my understanding of the world and fortifying my resolve to make a positive impact.
In 2017, I established We Are One Southeast Chicago (We Are One SEC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of seniors in Milwaukee, Chicago, and beyond. Our mission is simple yet profound: to celebrate the wisdom and talents of older Americans while fostering a sense of community and support.
Through vibrant events such as Juneteenth celebrations and Older American Month, we've created spaces where seniors can thrive and connect, supported by a network of dedicated volunteers. The overwhelming success of these endeavors is a testament to the trust and camaraderie we've built within our community.
We Are One SEC has evolved into a beacon of intergenerational collaboration, with seniors mentoring future leaders and fostering civic engagement. Our partnerships with local businesses have not only promoted their services but have also empowered seniors to embrace their individuality and economic potential.
Moreover, We Are One SEC serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue and empowerment, addressing issues of social justice and civic responsibility. By fostering open conversations and promoting active listening, we aim to cultivate a society grounded in empathy and mutual respect.
As I reflect on my journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunities to serve and uplift others. My life's purpose has been enriched by the relationships forged and the lessons learned along the way. And as I continue on this path, I invite others to join me in creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
In essence, my story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of community. Together, we can overcome adversity and build a world where everyone is valued and supported. So, I ask you: What leg
acy will you leave for your community?
We Are One Southeast Chicago is now a senior professional service. We Are One SEC Midwest elders witnessed the importance of mutual learning from an intergenerational basis and began mentoring and training future civic engagement leaders. The City views us as a trusted senior organization.
We Are One SEC has been an ideal tool for companies to promote their services and products. seniors and the black community through billboards, radio, print, and social media marketing. The growing interest has shifted from conformation to pride, individuality, elder wisdom, and economic, generational wealth. We Are One Southeast Chicago is providing a unique inroad to our prospective sponsors by utilizing our unique intergenerational through celebration, health, and financial planning information, voter registration, and civic engagement organizers.
We Are One Southeast Chicago (SEC) continues to utilize Love and Engagement as a tool to uplift American Africans deprived of basic rights into becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life and claiming their rights. The tools we will implement will consist of making space for active listening to difficult discussions while encouraging shared conversations about ethical dilemmas and civic controversies in suffering Midwest Urban cities.
In this new era, although it may seem difficult to identify common values, beliefs, and characteristics that hold us together as a nation, our empowerment and love civic engagement approach will shed light on our shared values that democracy, equality, speech, and good government can exist in America. My journey's not any different than your journey.
I have decided to use my life experience for the good of my community. What is going to be your choice?
