Our Mission
We are committed to supporting survivors and victims of abuse, while also fostering an inclusive environment where individuals are empowered to use their voice to break the cycle of abuse, live a life free of violence, and remove the stigma associated with it.
OUR STORY
Gustavia Pearls Women's Outreach was founder by Dwantrina Russell on April 21, 2013, and was inspired to name the organization after her mother, Pastor Margie 'Gustavia' Russell. Her mother was a beacon of hope, a guiding light, and a safe haven for many in the community, due to her shelter for battered women with children, a rehabilitation facility to help former inmates reintegrate into society, and countless home-cooked meals to needy families until her passing in 2012.
Dwantrina Russell is a survivor of domestic violence who recounts her true-life journey of surviving physical and emotional abuse. She shares an inspiring message of rediscovering life beyond the scars while transitioning from a victim to a survivor and fulfilling her God-given purpose. Dwantrina believes no one should go through the healing process alone which is why she founded Gustavia Pearls Women's Outreach. The organization fosters an inclusive environment where people feel empowered to use their voice to end the cycle of violence, live a life free from abuse, and remove the stigma for individuals seeking a hopeful future. 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.
Her story has appeared on The Wall Street Journal, NBC7 San Diego News, and the Points of Light Inspiration Honor Wall, as well as ABC13 News, KPRC2 News, The Voyage Houston, and The Houston Chronicle. Dwantrina is dedicated to serving thousands of people, primarily in underserved areas, through long-term projects that address immediate needs while also developing more equitable communities.
Dwantrina has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the President's Lifetime Achievement Award, Certificates of Recognition for Community STEM Day and Recognition for the 'Light the Night Purple' Domestic Violence Awareness Event, City of Houston Proclamation, Texas Resolution, d-mars Top 50 Professionals Entrepreneurs of Texas Award, and the Kairos iChange Nations Urban Strategies & Solutions Award. She serves on the Texas Girls Collaborative Project Champions Board, the Board of Directors of Houston Land Bank, the North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce, and the UT Physicians Community Advisory Board (CAB).
