Making a tremendous impact

BY CAPUCINE HOLMES

People are suffering through trials and tribulation. Ask yourself: Will you put your heart into service for others, unconditionally?

Sarah Herring is the president of Hand BagsU Like, and her vision became a reality when impact was made with a group of women through transformation of body, mind and spirit. The birth of The Impact Experience happened in Las Vegas. It was a “wow!” factor up close and personal.

Sarah Herring gave fabulous, brand-new clothes from her collection to women whose lives have been affected by homelessness, sex trafficking, domestic violence, prison, teenage pregnancy, cancer, divorce, mental and behavioral health, and more. Sarah’s vision and commitment is to bring community organizations together to discuss issues and make a impact on someone’s life — together, as a community. The beauty of service is transcendent — and Sarah’s vision is going global, as it reaches Jamaica and Japan.

Keynote speaker Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard (national vice president of The Links, Inc.) and moderator Dr. Tiffany Tyler (CEO of Communities In Schools) were both dynamic. Said Dr. Leonard: “When you serve it should be your nature. It should not be for recognition or accolades.”

As for the panelists, Gwen Braimoh of Expertise Cosmetology pampered the participants with hair and nail services. Kimberly Bailey-Tureaud of Las Vegas Black Image Magazine gave wisdom on goals and perseverance. Bruce Eddins, administrator of Horizon Ridge Clinic, provided knowledge of mental health, behavioral health, and substance abuse. Several organizations and their representatives also participated: Tricia Ann McLaurin, president of NCBW-100, who is connecting the experience to Nigeria; Kathleen Knight, president of Las Vegas chapter of The Links, Inc.; Marian Thomas of Shade Tree; Toshia Shaw, founder of Purple Wings; Nic Steele of Eclipse Theatre, who gave free movie vouchers to all attendees; and many more.

Las Vegas was impacted, as tears of pain and happiness flowed!