The spirit of gratitude and community was alive and thriving on Saturday, November 22, 2025, as the Latin American Business Association (LABA), along with its sponsors and partner organizations, hosted a highly successful 16th Annual Thanksgiving Drive-Thru Meal Giveaway at the Assault Brigade 250G Museum in Hialeah Gardens. From 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., cars lined NW 107th Avenue as families eagerly awaited a warm holiday meal to take home.
This year’s event surpassed expectations, providing more than 500 complete Thanksgiving meals to families of four who may otherwise have struggled to celebrate the holiday. The drive-thru distribution ran smoothly, thanks to a coordinated team of volunteers who guided vehicles, handed out meal packages, and shared heartfelt holiday wishes.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Excitement Radio was onsite conducting live interviews with attendees, capturing their stories, gratitude, and holiday spirit. Their presence helped bring even greater visibility to the event and highlighted the importance of community support during the Thanksgiving season.
The event’s success was also made possible through strong collaboration with local agencies. The Hialeah Gardens Police Department provided security and assisted with traffic flow, ensuring a safe and efficient drive-thru process for all participants. Staff from the City of Hialeah Gardens were also present, offering support throughout the event and contributing to its smooth operation.
Photo: Charito and Florida Venture Foundation Members
LABA and its sponsors were joined by several dedicated volunteer organizations, including the National Council of Negro Women – Metropolitan Dade County Section, Excitement Radio Station, Inc., Urban Community Connections, Inc., and the Urban League of Greater Miami, Inc., whose service was vital to the event’s success.
One of the proud supporters, Alina from the Florida Venture Foundation, expressed her gratitude for being part of such a meaningful initiative. “Seeing so many families leave with smiles and the comfort of knowing they’ll have a complete Thanksgiving meal is truly rewarding,” Alina shared. “Florida Venture Foundation is honored to support an event that brings hope, dignity, and joy to our community during the holiday season.”
As Thanksgiving approaches, the success of this year’s giveaway highlights the power of collaboration and compassion across the community. LABA and its partners remain deeply committed to uplifting local families and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the warmth and unity that define the holiday.
A successful day, a grateful community, and a Thanksgiving filled with heart.
Since 2016, the relationship between American evangelicalism and Donald Trump has become one of the most widely examined intersections of religion and politics in the United States. Within charismatic and prophetic Christian networks, Trump has not only been supported politically but has been increasingly framed as a divinely appointed leader. This belief intensified following events such as his election, legislative actions regarding Israel, and the 2024 assassination attempt. Reporting from major news outlets, including The Washington Post (2024), Associated Press (2024), and Politico (2024). reveals a consistent narrative: for many believers, Trump is not merely a political figure but a central actor in a divine, prophetic unfolding. This article analyzes the development of these narratives, their theological basis, their political implications, and the critiques they have generated.
Historical Foundations of Prophetic Beliefs Surrounding Trump
Prophetic interpretations of Trump’s role emerged even before his first presidential candidacy. Early prophetic voices, such as retired firefighter Mark Taylor, claimed to have received divine messages predicting Trump’s rise as early as 2011. While these claims remained fringe at first, they gained traction within the charismatic Christian movement following Trump’s successful 2016 campaign.
The New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), a decentralized movement emphasizing modern prophecy, apostolic authority, and societal transformation, became a major vehicle for these interpretations. Its leaders frequently framed Trump as a “Cyrus figure,” referencing the Persian king whom God used to accomplish divine purposes despite his non-Israelite identity (Le Monde, 2025). This analogy allowed believers to reconcile Trump’s morally controversial behavior with the claim that God had chosen him uniquely for national restoration.
Divine Protection and the July 2024 Assassination Attempt
The assassination attempt on Trump in July 2024 dramatically amplified prophetic narratives. According to The Washington Post (2024), leaders such as Franklin Graham interpreted Trump’s survival as evidence of direct divine intervention, suggesting that God spared his life for a purpose not yet fulfilled. Trump himself fueled this perception, publicly stating that God alone prevented his death.
Megachurch sermons reported by Politico (2024) frequently described Trump as God’s “chosen one” or positioned him within biblical frameworks emphasizing divine protection. Congregations across the United States held prayer services portraying the event as confirmation that spiritual forces were at work in contemporary politics. These reactions reinforced the belief that Trump’s leadership is spiritually significant and that the nation is engaged in a cosmic battle between good and evil.
Prophetic Conferences and the Narrative of Spiritual Warfare
Prophetic conferences serve as key social and theological hubs for spreading the belief that Trump’s presidency is divinely ordained. The Associated Press (2024) reported on a major event; the Opening the Heavens conference in Iowa. where leaders openly connected Trump’s reelection prospects to a battle between divine and demonic forces.
Attendees participated in collective declarations such as the “Watchman Decree,” affirming Christian dominion over governmental and cultural spheres. Leaders prayed against “satanic attacks” on Trump, describing him as a vessel through whom God would reshape the nation. In these contexts, Trump is essential not because of policy expertise but because he occupies a spiritual office within prophetic cosmology.
Biblical Typology and Theological Justifications
The belief in Trump’s divine appointment often rests on biblical typologies. As Le Monde (2025) notes, he is frequently compared to King David; a flawed but anointed leader or to King Cyrus, a nonbeliever used by God to accomplish sacred purposes. These comparisons provide theological legitimacy for political loyalty, suggesting that moral or personal shortcomings do not preclude divine selection.
Such typologies reflect longstanding patterns in charismatic Christianity, where political events are interpreted through an eschatological lens. In this view, Trump’s presidency represents a pivotal moment in salvation history, linked to spiritual revival, national restoration, and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Criticisms and Democratic Implications
Scholars and religious ethicists have raised concerns about the blending of prophetic spirituality and partisan politics. The Washington Post (2019) argues that referring to Trump as “the chosen one” functions as a political act as much as a theological statement, potentially blurring the boundaries between civic authority and divine mandate. When political leaders are framed as instruments of God’s will, dissent may be viewed not merely as disagreement but as spiritual rebellion.
Sociologists have also warned about the mobilizing power of prophetic claims. Prophetic messaging can motivate voters with a sense of divine urgency, but it can also deepen polarization and legitimize extreme actions by framing political opponents as demonic or divinely opposed.
Final Thoughts
The belief that Donald Trump’s presidency is a fulfillment of divine prophecy represents a powerful intersection of religion and politics within contemporary American evangelicalism. Rooted in charismatic traditions, shaped through prophetic conferences, and amplified by national media coverage, these narratives have both mobilized political support and provoked theological and civic concerns. As Trump continues to occupy a central position in American political life, the prophetic narratives surrounding him will likely remain influential, shaping both voter behavior and religious identity in the years to come.
Photo: Mario Knapp, Chief City of Homestead Police Department (FB: Mario Knapp)
When Mario Knapp was sworn in as Chief of City of Homestead Police Department (HPD) on January 3, 2025, the ceremony represented more than a leadership transition. It marked a pivotal moment for a city experiencing rapid growth, new economic development, and evolving public-safety challenges. With nearly three decades of experience in the Miami-Dade Police Department, Chief Knapp brings not only command-level expertise but also a philosophy built on trust, analytics, and a deep commitment to community partnerships.
A Leader Forged Through Experience
Chief Knapp’s law-enforcement journey began in 1994 with the Miami-Dade Police Department, where he served in numerous high-impact roles. His command experience spans critical units such as SWAT, Bomb Squad, Marine Patrol, K-9, Motors, Seaport Operations, and the Crime Suppression Unit. He is widely respected for his expertise in use-of-force training and for helping develop active-shooter protocols used nationally.
Knapp’s leadership was especially visible during the Surfside condo collapse, where he served as the Command Post Incident Commander, an experience that demonstrated his ability to lead with calm precision in moments of crisis.
Now, as Homestead’s Chief of Police, he brings this depth of knowledge to a department poised for transformational growth.
Strengthening the Homestead Police Department
HPD is a mid-sized, full-service police agency operating out of 45 NW 1st Avenue and staffed by approximately 130 sworn officers and more than 80 civilian personnel. Under Chief Knapp, the department is steadily growing and modernizing to meet the needs of a city on the rise.
Key HPD Units and Special Teams
SWAT / Hostage Negotiations
K-9 Unit
Traffic & Motors Unit
Special Investigations Unit (SIU)
Community Action Team (CAT)
Crime Scene Investigations (CSI)
Community Policing Unit (CPU)
Chief Knapp has made it clear: as Homestead grows, HPD must grow “proportionally and strategically,” with a focus on both capability and community presence.
Community Policing at the Center
One of Knapp’s first priorities has been strengthening the department’s community-policing framework. Rather than relying solely on enforcement, he views public safety as a long-term collaboration with residents, civic leaders, local businesses, and youth organizations.
HPD’s Community Programs Include:
Group Violence Intervention (GVI)
Police Athletic League (PAL)
Police Explorers (youth leadership program)
Start Off Smart (SOS) social-service partnership
Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA)
From neighborhood walks to school presentations and community meetings, HPD’s presence has become more visible—an intentional move by Knapp to reinforce trust, transparency, and accessibility.
Data-Driven Policing: Smart, Targeted, Effective
Beyond community outreach, Chief Knapp is modernizing HPD through analytics and strategic deployment. His philosophy is simple: diagnose before you prescribe.
Using crime statistics, geographic trends, and call-for-service data, HPD is enhancing how officers are positioned across the city. The goal is to reduce response times, prevent incidents before they escalate, and use limited resources efficiently.
This shift comes at a critical time, as Homestead continues to experience some of the highest crime rates in Florida.
Crime in Homestead: The Numbers Behind the Challenge
A clear-eyed view of Homestead’s public-safety environment shows a city with serious but addressable challenges.
Recent Crime Statistics
Over 4,343 violent crimes and 5,833 property crimes occurred in Homestead from 2019–2023.
The violent-crime rate averaged 2,048.8 per 100,000 residents, well above state and national averages.
In 2022, Homestead recorded:
513 aggravated assaults
205 robberies
30 rapes
5 murders
In 2023, the city logged 1,836 property crimes, including burglary, larceny, and motor-vehicle theft.
While these figures underscore the obstacles ahead, Chief Knapp’s initiatives target both the root causes and the patterns behind these trends.
From Enforcement to Engagement: Building Public Trust
Knapp understands that improving safety is not just about lowering statistics, it’s about how residents feel. To strengthen community trust, HPD has taken meaningful steps:
Expanding accessibility through public meetings and neighborhood patrols
Increasing body-camera transparency and timely public-records responses
Enhancing officer training, particularly in de-escalation and crisis intervention
Building youth mentorship pathways through PAL and Explorers
Collaborating with social-service networks to support victims and at-risk families
Early feedback from residents and community leaders reflects growing confidence in HPD’s direction.
Challenges Ahead and a Vision for the Future
Homestead’s rapid development of new housing, commercial expansion, and population growth presents a dual challenge: rising service demands and a more complex safety landscape.
Chief Knapp has outlined several long-term priorities:
Expanding sworn staffing to meet national policing benchmarks
Improving dispatch and communications infrastructure
Streamlining investigative processes for faster case resolutions
Strengthening partnerships with schools, faith-based groups, and nonprofits
Securing accreditation, which ensures national best practices in transparency and professionalism
His leadership style, collaborative, analytical, and forward-leaning, may be exactly what Homestead needs as it navigates its next chapter.
The Path Forward
Chief Mario Knapp faces a difficult but crucial mission: to reduce crime, strengthen community bonds, and build a modern, trusted police department. Yet early signs point to a positive trajectory. His blend of experience, innovation, and community commitment positions HPD to deliver meaningful, lasting change.
In a city defined by diversity, growth, and resilience, Knapp’s leadership is helping write a new story for Homestead; one where safety, partnership, and progress move hand in hand.
Resources
Homestead Police Department 45 NW 1st Ave, Homestead, FL 33030
Sharron L. Henley, MA, MIN, Journalist Conversations With Charito, LLC
When people hear the word trauma, they often imagine a visible injury; a car crash, an assault, or a natural disaster. These are the kinds of wounds that leave physical marks. However, trauma runs deeper than what can be seen on the surface. It affects not only the body but also the mind and the spirit, leaving invisible scars that can shape a person’s thoughts, emotions, and sense of meaning in life. Unfortunately, many people still misunderstand trauma as being only physical, which can lead to misinformed care and a lack of support for those suffering from emotional or spiritual wounds.
Psychological trauma can come from experiences such as emotional abuse, chronic stress, neglect, or betrayal. A person may not have been physically harmed, yet they can still carry deep emotional pain. Spiritual trauma can occur when a person’s sense of meaning or faith is shaken. Survivors of trauma sometimes feel that their higher power has abandoned them or that life has lost its purpose. Research indicates that when trauma leads to spiritual struggle, such as questioning beliefs or feeling punished, it often correlates with greater psychological distress and post-traumatic symptoms (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2025). In short, trauma is not only about what happens to the body; it is about what happens to the heart and soul.
One major obstacle to recovery is misinformed care. Many people, including well-intentioned friends, family members, or even some professionals, rely on myths rather than evidence-based practices when supporting trauma survivors. Common misconceptions; such as believing that trauma can be “healed” by simply moving on, by ignoring painful memories, or by forcing a person to relive every detail of their trauma, can actually worsen emotional suffering. These ideas may create shame, reinforce avoidance, or retraumatize individuals who are not ready to process their experiences fully. Studies have shown that misconceptions about trauma-focused therapy and the recovery process can undermine trust and reduce treatment effectiveness (Gray et al., 2023; Contreras, 2024). Genuine healing requires compassion, safety, and a gradual, supported approach rather than pressure or quick fixes (Eldridge, 2024).
The holiday season can make these emotional wounds more noticeable. While holidays are often portrayed as a time of joy, warmth, and togetherness, they can also become a source of anxiety and emotional pain. For many, the season brings back memories of loss, family conflict, or loneliness. The constant reminders of celebration can make those who are grieving or struggling feel even more isolated. According to a recent survey by the American Heart Association, 63% of U.S. adults reported that the holiday season is more stressful than tax season, citing difficulty prioritizing their health and well-being during the period (American Heart Association, 2023). Even simple things like crowds, bright lights, and loud music can trigger stress responses in people with a history of trauma. The expectation to be cheerful when one feels emotionally raw can deepen feelings of shame or inadequacy. On top of that, disrupted routines, less sleep, more obligations, and fewer moments of quiet, can weaken a person’s ability to cope. What is often described as “holiday blues” may actually be a resurfacing of deeper wounds that have not yet been fully healed.
Healing from trauma requires understanding it in its full complexity. It is important to recognize that trauma can harm every part of a person’s being: their body, mind, and spirit. Acknowledging spiritual and emotional pain is the first step toward meaningful recovery. When therapists and caregivers include discussions about faith, identity, and purpose in treatment, they help survivors rebuild not only emotional balance but also a sense of meaning (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2025).
There are several evidence-based therapies that have shown success in helping people process trauma. For example, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) has been tested in numerous randomized controlled trials, showing significant improvement in trauma symptoms among both children and adults (Cohen, Mannarino, & Deblinger, 2024; Larsen et al., 2025). Narrative Exposure Therapy allows survivors to place traumatic experiences within the larger context of their lives, reducing the emotional intensity of those memories. For those whose trauma involves spiritual struggle, approaches that integrate meaning-making and faith exploration, such as the Building Spiritual Strength program, have shown promise (Park, 2023). In addition, mindfulness, grounding exercises, and body-centered practices can help regulate the nervous system and restore a sense of safety after trauma.
During the holidays, it can help to take a proactive approach to self-care. Setting boundaries, saying no when necessary, and making space for rest can make a significant difference. It is perfectly acceptable to skip gatherings or traditions that cause emotional pain. Preparing for potential triggers, planning moments of quiet reflection, and reaching out to supportive friends, family, or a counselor can make the season more manageable. Healing does not mean forcing joy but rather creating an environment that allows peace and emotional safety.
If trauma symptoms persist, such as flashbacks, persistent sadness, detachment, or a loss of faith, it may be time to seek professional help. Therapists trained in trauma-informed care can provide guidance and evidence-based support tailored to the individual’s needs.
Ultimately, understanding trauma as more than physical harm allows for a more compassionate and effective response. The holidays, though often difficult for those with emotional wounds, can also become a time of renewal when approached with awareness and self-compassion. Healing is possible when we acknowledge the pain, seek help, and rebuild meaning, by taking each step, one day at a time, while celebrating each milestone of the healing process.
Gray, R., Wong, L., et al. (2023). Ten misconceptions about trauma-focused CBT for PTSD. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 157, 104239.
Larsen, K., et al. (2025). Efficacy of cognitive behavioural therapies with a trauma focus for posttraumatic stress disorder: An individual participant data meta-analysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 93(6), 401–426.
Park, C. L. (2023). Use of religious and spiritual responses after trauma to prevent posttraumatic stress symptoms and suicidality: The role of meaning in life. Journal of Affective Disorders, 333, 368–380. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37670214/
Each year on Veterans Day, we pause as a nation to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It is a day not only of remembrance but of gratitude; an opportunity to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication that define our veterans.
Photo: AI Shutterstock CWC News
From the earliest days of our country’s history, Americans have stepped forward to defend freedom, protect our values, and serve with honor. Their stories, whether told or untold, form the living legacy of our nation’s strength and resilience.
African Americans first took up arms during the Revolutionary War, serving in units like the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, which included both free and formerly enslaved men. Native Americans such as the Choctaw and Navajo made vital contributions as scouts and, later, as the famous Code Talkers during World War II. Hispanic Americans, from the Mexican American War to modern conflicts, have consistently demonstrated courage and patriotism. Asian Americans, including Japanese Americans of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team in World War II, earned distinction as one of the most decorated units in U.S. history. Over time, the shared hardships and dangers of battle forged strong bonds among service members of every race and background. On the front lines, soldiers learned to depend on one another for survival, creating a brotherhood that transcended color and culture. Many white soldiers came to respect their minority comrades as equals in courage and commitment. These shared experiences gradually helped break down racial barriers, advancing equality both within the military and throughout society.
Photo: Women in Military (Military.com)
Women also answered the call to serve. Though their roles were once limited to nursing and support, women proved indispensable throughout American history. During World War I and II, they served as nurses, clerks, and members of the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) and Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES). In 1948, the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act granted women permanent status in the military. Today, women serve in every branch and capacity, including combat roles, continuing to shape the future of America’s armed forces.
The 54th Massachusetts Regiment: A Legacy of Courage
Photo: “Storming Fort Wagner,” Kurz and Allison, Library of Congress
One of the most inspiring chapters in American military history is that of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, one of the first official African American units in the Union Army during the Civil War. Formed in early 1863 under the leadership of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, the 54th stood as a symbol of courage and determination in the face of racial prejudice and inequality. Their heroic assault on Fort Wagner in South Carolina demonstrated to the world that bravery knows no color. Despite suffering heavy losses, the regiment’s valor helped pave the way for nearly 180,000 Black soldiers who would later serve in the Union Army, turning the tide of the war and reshaping the course of American history.
Following the Civil War, African American soldiers continued to serve with distinction as part of the Buffalo Soldiers, a name given to members of the all-Black regiments established in 1866, including the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 24th and 25th Infantry. These regiments were tasked with protecting settlers, building roads and telegraph lines, and defending the Western frontier. They served honorably despite facing discrimination and harsh conditions. Their service extended beyond the American frontier. Buffalo Soldiers fought in the Spanish-American War, the Philippine-American War, and even served as some of the first national park rangers. Their loyalty, discipline, and strength of spirit have left an enduring mark on American history.
The First Veterans Recognition The holiday we now know as Veterans Day has its roots in the end of World War I. On November 11, 1918, the armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. In November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day, expressing gratitude for the heroism of those who died in service and hope for lasting peace. Originally, Armistice Day was set aside primarily to honor veterans of World War I. However, in 1954, Congress amended the law and President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. This change expanded the observance to honor American veterans of all wars, creating the national day of recognition we celebrate today.
A Nation’s Gratitude Today, we honor all veterans, past and present, who have worn the uniform with pride. Their sacrifices, whether on distant battlefields or here at home, have safeguarded our freedoms and shaped the nation we cherish. As we observe Veterans Day, let us remember that our debt to these heroes can never truly be repaid, but it can be honored through gratitude, understanding, and continued support for all who have served.
A Personal Note of Thanks On this Veterans Day, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my parents, family members, friends, colleagues and associates who have served in the military. Your courage, commitment, and sacrifice inspire me every day. Thank you for protecting our nation and embodying the true spirit of service and honor. I salute you!
Sharron L. Henley, MA, MIN, Journalist Conversations With Charito, LLC
Women and the Importance of Self-Care
Women often balance several roles in their daily lives such as professional, family, and community responsibilities. This can lead to stress and neglect of personal needs if self-care is not prioritized (Moudatsou et al., 2025). Cultural and social norms often expect women to focus on others first, which can lead them to ignore or silence their own needs. This pattern has been linked to a higher risk of anxiety and depression (Thibaut, 2025).
A recent Gallup survey showed that nearly two-thirds of women in the United States find it difficult to prioritize their own health, citing emotional exhaustion, caregiving duties, and work stress as major barriers (Gallup, 2024). This suggests that self-care is not simply a lifestyle choice but a necessary foundation for women’s long term health.
Preventive self-care, which involves taking actions to maintain health before illness develops, is especially relevant. Wilson Takaoka, Jaccheri, and Sharma (2024) found that women who reported lower self-care engagement had higher levels of anxiety and depression, especially in high stress occupations. This demonstrates the strong connection between preventive self care and mental well-being .
The Relationship Between Self Care and Mental Health
Recent studies confirm that self-care helps reduce the effects of stress and supports positive mental health. For example, Moudatsou et al. (2025) found that women who took part in personal development and support groups during health crises reported better resilience and emotional balance. These results show that self-care can act as a protective factor that promotes healthier responses to stress.
Self Care Interventions and Mental Health Outcomes
Digital programs and online mental health resources that promote self-care have also shown positive outcomes. A 2025 study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that individuals, especially women, who used self-care tools reported higher levels of wellbeing and emotional regulation (JMIR, 2025). This supports the growing use of digital self-care strategies as accessible mental health resources.
The Cycle of Poor Mental Health and Neglected Self Care
When mental health declines, motivation and energy for self-care often decrease. This creates a cycle where poor mental health leads to reduced self-care, which then worsens mental distress. Integrated programs that combine self-care education and mental health support are needed to break this pattern (KFF, 2025).
Practical Dimensions of Women’s Self Care: Physical Foundations
Physical self-care includes sleep, exercise, and nutrition. The World Health Organization (2025) emphasizes that these behaviors are essential to global health and must be encouraged for all women. Preventive medical visits, awareness of personal health changes, and stress management are also critical components of physical self-care.
Emotional and Psychological Dimensions
Emotional self-care involves activities that help manage stress and strengthen emotional resilience. Practices such as mindfulness, journaling, and creative outlets can improve emotional stability. Katan and Kelly (2023) found that self compassion among women with eating disorders supported healthier coping behaviors and reduced emotional distress. In addition, maintaining supportive social networks is essential for emotional wellbeing (Moradi et al., 2021).
Holistic and Contextual Considerations
Self-care changes throughout life and is influenced by social and environmental factors. A 2024 study in BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making highlighted that self-care must be made accessible and adaptable to women from different backgrounds, especially those facing emotional or economic challenges. Women in resource limited communities often experience barriers that reduce their ability to practice consistent self-care. Addressing these barriers requires social and policy level action (BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making, 2024).
Self-Care as Empowerment, Not Indulgence
Although self-care is sometimes seen as indulgent, research clearly shows that it is a form of empowerment. When women take care of their mental and physical health, they become better able to function in their families, workplaces, and communities (Thibaut, 2025). Self-care represents a reclaiming of control over personal well-being and challenges social systems that undervalue women’s health needs.
Women’s self l-care is a critical factor in maintaining good mental health. Current research shows that self-care reduces stress, builds resilience, and improves emotional stability. However, social expectations, unequal access to resources, and stigma can prevent women from engaging in sustained self-care. By creating supportive environments, expanding education, and ensuring access to mental health resources, society can help women make self-care a sustainable part of daily life.
References
BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making. (2024). A national platform for advancing self-care processes for common illnesses and conditions: Designing, evaluating, and implementing. BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making, 24, Article 331. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12911-024-02744-4
Katan, A., & Kelly, A. C. (2023). A daily diary study of self compassion and adaptive coping behaviors in women with symptoms of bulimia nervosa. Journal of Eating Disorders, 11, 50. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-023-00755-6
Moudatsou, M., Stavropoulou, A., Rovithis, M., Mimarakis, D., & Koukouli, S. (2025). Promoting women’s mental health and resilience in times of crisis through personal development groups. Healthcare, 13(9), 1035. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13091035
Thibaut, F. (2025). Recent progress in women’s mental health research and future priorities. European Psychiatry, 68(Suppl 1), S40. https://doi.org/10.1192/j.eurpsy.2025.146
Wilson Takaoka, A. J., Jaccheri, L., & Sharma, K. (2024). Exploring self-care, anxiety, depression, and the gender gap in the technology workforce. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 21(11), 1468. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21111468
Conversations With Charito at Excitement Radio Station
CWC November 2, 2025
Tune in this Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 12 PM ET for Conversations With Charito on ExcitementRadio.com! We’ll be diving into “Women in the Workplace: Insecurity, Leadership, and the Need for Unity.”
🎙️ Studio Guests:
Danielle Pierre, MBA President, NAACP Miami-Dade Branch
Davica Williams, MDIV Davi Speaks
Tysharra Belfon, APRN-BC. Belfon Health & Aesthetics
Join the conversation as these dynamic women share insights on mentorship, collaboration, and breaking barriers in leadership.
Daniella Pierre, MBA President, NAACP Miami-Dade Branch Photo: NAACP Miami-Dade
Daniella Pierre is a dedicated community advocate and serves as President of the NAACP Miami-Dade Branch. She is committed to advancing civil rights, affordable housing, education, women’s empowerment, and economic opportunity throughout South Florida.
A proud graduate of Florida International University, Daniella is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership at St. Thomas University.
Davica Williams, MDIV
Davica Williams MDIV is a faith-centered executive and multi-media strategist with 25+ years leading at the intersection of ministry, media, and marketplace.
As the voice behind DaviSpeaks “Your Chief Energy Officiant,” | energize rooms, elevate brands, and empower communities through transformational leadership, storytelling, and purpose-driven engagement.
Known for curating sacred spaces in corporate, academic, and spiritual arenas blending high-level strategy with heart-centered impact. Speaker. Host. Vision Catalyst.
Tysharra Belfon, APRN-BCPhoto: Belfon Health & Aesthetics
Belfon Health and Aesthetics is a boutique Health & Wellness Center located in Cooper City, Florida. Owned & Operated by Board-certified Nurse Practitioner Tysharra Belfon, to combine her passion for Medicine, Aesthetics and sustainable weight loss to help all her patients look and feel their best. As a concierge medical clinic, Belfon Health and Aesthetics offers affordable access to health services, including annual physical exams, sick visits and pre-op surgical clearance. IV hydration is also available for patients who want to invest in their total wellbeing, increase their energy levels, boost metabolism, and improve cognitive function.
Sharron L. Henley, MA, MIN, Journalist Conversations With Charito, LLC
In today’s workforce, women continue to navigate complex challenges that extend beyond structural inequality. While external barriers such as gender discrimination remain significant, internal divisions among women can also hinder collective progress. Too often, competition, insecurity, and a fear of being overshadowed prevent collaboration and mentorship. When a woman in a leadership position feels threatened by the skills or potential of someone on her team, she may respond by withholding support or creating unnecessary friction. These behaviors not only harm the professional development of others but also perpetuate a cycle of inequality within organizations.
Despite these challenges, progress has been made in many professional settings. Increasingly, organizations are recognizing the value of inclusive leadership, mentorship, and women supporting one another. A 2023 integrative review of leadership challenges for women found that fostering mentorship and peer collaboration significantly improves both retention and promotion outcomes for women in leadership (de Ruiter et al., 2023). Similarly, a 2024 study in STEM fields found that when women hold senior or high-status positions, they increase collaboration among other women and improve team outcomes (Atuk, Akin, & DiMarco, 2024). These findings demonstrate that when women empower one another, they create measurable change within workplace culture and performance.
For Black women in leadership roles, the experience can be particularly layered. They often carry the burden of both racial and gender bias while navigating professional spaces that question their authority or competence. This constant scrutiny can create additional pressure and, at times, foster competition rather than community. Gardner-Kennedy (2023) found that Black women leaders in nonprofit sectors frequently encounter both external racism and internalized color-based bias within their own communities, which can hinder solidarity and trust among colleagues.
Colorism remains a particularly damaging and persistent issue. Within the Black community, lighter skin tones are often unfairly associated with professionalism, attractiveness, and intelligence, perceptions that trace back to colonial history and social hierarchies. A 2023 review of psychological research on colorism among Black women found that darker-skinned women continue to face disproportionate challenges in professional advancement and interpersonal evaluations (Howard, 2023). These biases not only limit individual opportunity but also fracture unity among women who should be allies in progress.
To overcome these obstacles, women must commit to transformational leadership that emphasizes collaboration, empathy, and empowerment. Research on mentorship programs has shown that structured, intentional mentorship creates long-term pathways for women’s advancement and confidence in leadership roles (Nguyen et al., 2024). True leaders cultivate inclusion by celebrating others’ accomplishments, addressing bias directly, and promoting equitable access to opportunity. Intentional collaboration allows women to replace competition with community, creating a foundation for sustained success.
As Maya Angelou once said, “I am convinced of this: good done anywhere is good done everywhere. For a change, start by speaking to people rather than walking by them like they are stones you do not care about” (Angelou, 1993). Her words remind us that leadership begins with empathy and action. Every act of encouragement and support contributes to a larger movement of empowerment and shared achievement.
In this era, when diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to progress, silence and passivity are no longer acceptable. If you are not supporting, uplifting, or advocating for other women, especially those who face compounded barriers of race or colorism, then you are part of the problem. Leadership today must be grounded in collaboration and compassion. When women lift one another up, they not only advance themselves but also reshape the culture of leadership for generations to come.
References
Angelou, M. (1993). Wouldn’t take nothing for my journey now. Random House.
Atuk, O., Akin, H., & DiMarco, M. (2024). How high-status women promote repeated collaboration among women in male-dominated contexts. arXiv preprint arXiv:2407.03474.https://arxiv.org/abs/2407.03474
de Ruiter, M., Meeussen, L., van Grootel, S., & van Laar, C. (2023). Challenges women experience in leadership careers: An integrative review. Social Sciences, 3(2), 21.
Gardner-Kennedy, A. (2023). Colorism and women who self-identify as Black in leadership roles (Doctoral dissertation, Walden University). Walden University ScholarWorks. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/12117
Nguyen, T., Ferreira, R., & McNamara, M. (2024). Optimizing mentorship programs from the perspective of academic medicine leadership: A qualitative study. BMC Medical Education, 24(1), 463. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05463-6
Protect Your Peace by Dr. Patrick Anthony Williams, Ph.D.
From the desk of Dr. Williams, Ph.D.
Have you ever tried to help someone, only to realize that they are deeply attached to their own suffering? It is a sobering revelation that some people are not searching for healing, only for sympathy. You offer wisdom, extend grace, and pour patience into them, yet it never seems to reach.
Because the truth is, some individuals are addicted to struggle. It becomes their identity, their comfort zone, their sense of normalcy. Chaos feels like home. Peace feels like a foreign land whose language they never learned to speak.
They pray for blessings, but the moment they arrive, they run back to the habits that once blocked those very blessings. They cry out for genuine love, yet sabotage the relationships that nourish them.
They ask for honesty, but when you speak truth, they label it as judgment. It is not that your words are harsh; it is that growth requires self-confrontation, and that is a mirror many refuse to face.
Accountability feels like rejection to those who have only known affirmation in dysfunction. At some point, you must accept this difficult truth: you cannot save people who are offended by accountability. That is not your divine assignment.
Your role is not to drown trying to pull someone out of water they are determined to swim in. Sometimes, love looks like distance. Sometimes, compassion looks like release.
Letting go does not mean you stop caring—it means you stop sacrificing your peace on the altar of someone else’s chaos. Because when you continue trying to rescue people who are loyal to their own destruction, you don’t heal them—you inherit their storms.
Their confusion becomes your confusion. Their battles become your exhaustion. The weight of their choices slowly drains your spirit until you begin to forget that peace is your birthright too.
So protect your peace. Guard it like sacred ground. Wish them well, yes—but also know when to step aside and allow life to teach the lessons your words could not.
Healing is a personal journey; no one can walk it on borrowed strength. And if they love their problems more than they desire their freedom, no amount of advice, prayer, or presence will save them. Sometimes, the most powerful act of love is letting go.
Photo: Sharron L. Henley attending 2025 United Way Miami Annual Luncheon and Awards Ceremony at The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami.
Miami, FL — As United Way Miami celebrates 100 years of community service, one name stands tall among its most committed supporters: Ms. Sharron L. Henley, affectionately known as “Charito.” A proud native of Miami and a living example of transformation through community investment, Henley is celebrating a personal milestone: 30 years of payroll contributions to United Way Miami; as a member of its Women United Giving Community.
Henley’s journey with United Way began not as a donor, but as a beneficiary. Raised and educated in Miami-Dade County’s public and private school systems, she found herself as a single mother seeking stability and opportunity. Through the support of her mentor and “second mom,” the late Dr. Shirley B. Johnson, former President of the Miami-Dade Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Henley enrolled in United Way’s Welfare to Work program in 1994. At the time, the program was fueled by efforts like the Florida Dislocated Worker’s Center, a State of Florida and United Way Miami partnership aimed at empowering the unemployed with skills, training, and hope.
That program became a pivotal turning point in Henley’s life. It led her to successful completion of an undergraduate degree, gainful employment at Miami-Dade County Public Schools and The Urban League of Greater Miami, Inc., a long-standing United Way agency committed to empowering communities and changing lives.
Today, Henley serves as the Vice President of Program Development, Operations, and Management at that very agency, continuing her 29th year of empowerment. Only now, she is the one helping others find their path.
“Supporting United Way Miami is deeply personal for me,” said Henley. “I’ve experienced the impact firsthand. My three decades of giving are both an expression of gratitude and a way to pay it forward, so that another young mother, as I once was, can have the opportunity to shape a better future.”
Henley’s professional and civic contributions are as expansive as they are impactful. A graduate of Oakwood University with a B.S. in Biology and Full Sail University with an M.A. in New Media Journalism, she is a certified educator, an ordained minister, and a nonprofit leader with more than 25 years of experience in education, housing, public policy, and community empowerment in South Florida.
As host of her own radio program, Conversations With Charito on Excitement Radio, Henley leverages media to bring light to issues ranging from breast cancer awareness and identity theft to human trafficking and financial literacy. Her nonprofit, Urban Community Connections, Inc., further promotes cultural awareness and resource access, particularly within Black and Hispanic communities.
In recognition of her tireless work, Henley received the prestigious 2023 U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest civilian honor for volunteerism and civic service. Her life’s work has also earned her national recognition from Yale University, the National Urban League, and Merrill Lynch Philanthropic Fund as a best practice model for youth and minority empowerment initiatives.
Henley also devotes time to serving on the boards of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) Metropolitan Dade County Section (MDCS), North Miami Beach Police Athletic League (PAL), and The Historic Georgette’s Tea Room; each a testament to her unwavering commitment to the community that raised her.
As United Way Miami reflects on a century of changing lives, Henley stands as a beacon of what that mission looks like in action. From a struggling single parent to a pillar of strength in Miami’s nonprofit and education sectors, her story is a reminder that transformation is not only possible; it’s powerful.
Henley is the epitome of what Women United stands for, resilience, leadership, and community,” said Elaine Rozier, an education consultant for “Achievement Matters” program of the Urban League of Greater Miami, Inc. funded by United Way Miami. “Her 30-year commitment shows us all what it means to give with both heart and purpose.”
As both United Way Miami and Sharron L. Henley celebrate milestone anniversaries in 2025, their stories intertwine in the most meaningful way, proving that a community can be rebuilt, one life at a time, when we choose to uplift and invest in one another.
To support the ongoing work of transforming lives across Miami-Dade, you can join Sharron L. Henley and thousands of other changemakers by donating to United Way Miami. Your contribution helps fund vital programs in education, financial stability, and health, providing critical resources to individuals and families striving for a better future. Whether it’s a one-time gift or a recurring payroll deduction, every dollar makes a difference. To make a donation or learn more about how you can get involved, visit www.unitedwaymiami.org. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more equitable Miami for the next 100 years.
CWC News 