Stephanie
For close to 20 years, Stephanie has dreamed of a ministry for women with abuse in their story. She never could have imagined the journey God had in store when He birthed that dream in her heart all those years ago. With God’s vision in mind, Stephanie is fulfilling her dream in the role of Visionary Lead with Hope is Rising. Stephanie’s gift of creativity is used in fun and unique ways and is seen throughout her life. Her heart for others is evident in her passion for hurting and wounded people. Stephanie is fearless in walking out change and growth in her life. Her desire is to encourage others to courageously seek and discover what God has prepared for them in their own journey.
Stephanie and her husband just celebrated their 4-year anniversary. She enjoys sharing their “love story” because it is a story filled with redemption and one that only God could write. She loves to decorate her home and is often called upon to help others with their decorating projects. On pretty days, you’ll find Stephanie on her balcony with a good book in her hand, a glass of sweet blueberry tea on the table, and her 16 lb. ball of fluff, Lily Grace, curled up on the lounge chair.
Through her own story of childhood sexual abuse and the 29 years in an abusive marriage, Stephanie truly understands the pain and deep wounds left by trauma and abuse. As she has walked out her journey of healing, she has experienced freedom from the chains of her past. Stephanie’s heart is to use the good, the bad and the ugly of her life’s story to encourage, inspire, and offer hope to women in their own journey.
Michelle
It is obvious to anyone who meets Michelle that she has been given the gift of administration. Her organizational skills and attention to the details are over the top. At Hope is Rising, we have the privilege of Michelle using her gifts in our Administrative Lead role. Although her gifts are easily seen, you will discover her gifts go beyond her administrative role. Michelle’s beautiful smile and welcoming arms are a constant. She is sensitive and seeks to gain understanding of those around her. She is passionate about helping others and when it is within her reach, she ensures their needs are met. Her heart for people is readily seen, as she serves those around her. Michelle understands the importance and power of prayer and is a trusted prayer warrior.
Michelle stays busy with the clients of her bookkeeping business. She and her husband have been married for 34 years and they have two grown children. In her free time, Michelle enjoys walking, reading, and spending time with friends and family. She also loves to cook and is our personal chef for all the events with Hope is Rising. Secretly, Michelle would love to adopt a dog or cat, but for now, she enjoys pet sitting her granddog, Hesed, and Hope is Rising’s own Miss Lily Grace.
Michelle’s life story has its own markings of challenges, pain, and brokenness. Her life is also marked by change, growth, and victories. Her journey has brought her to places of healing and freedom. Michelle desires to use her gifts and talents and her life stories to minister and offer hope to the women around her. Hope is Rising is deeply blessed she has chosen to serve with us.