Our Mission
Our mission is to provide equitable recovery services and assistance to women and children who are fleeing domestic violence. We also aim to foster an inclusive environment where individuals are empowered to use their voice to end the cycle of abuse and remove the stigma surrounding it.
Our Founder
Gustavia Pearls Women's Outreach was founded by Dwantrina Russell, she was inspired to name the organization in honor of her mother Pastor Margie 'Gustavia' Russell, who was a beacon of hope and a safe haven for numerous battered women with children, giving shelter, home-cooked meals, and support to help them build a new life until her passing in 2012.
Dwantrina is an advocate and survivor of domestic violence, she has developed programs within the organization that promote self-esteem, self-identity, social support, and services to enhance long-term living conditions for individuals and families.
She hopes that survivors will recognize that they are not alone in their healing journey as they navigate through life traumas to a place of healing and hope.
As an advocate, she has partnered with scores of community advocates, criminal justice professionals, health care providers, clergy, legislators, educators, and other professional advisors who support her mission as she walks alongside survivors and co-create solutions to safety.
Dwantrina has received numerous awards and recognitions for her community involvement and currently serves on the board of several organizations.