In Loving Memory of Barbara

Barbara was a proud “Military Brat” (once a Brat, always a Brat). Born in Berlin, Germany, she spent her formative years there until age 16, carrying with her a deep appreciation for culture, discipline, and global perspective.

She earned her BBA from Augusta University in Augusta, GA, and later her MBA from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC. Guided by a lifelong passion for service, Barbara dedicated much of her career to nonprofit work. She became the co-founder of a nonprofit organization committed to advancing socio-economic equality through holistic and entrepreneurship-based education, including pathways in STEM and 21st century technology careers.

Barbara was deeply rooted in the communities she loved. She served on several boards, volunteered generously, and poured her time and energy into causes that aligned with her values, including workforce and economic development, access to healthcare, equity, diversity, inclusion, and important issues in the social justice space. Her activism was not just an extension of her beliefs but an expression of her spirit.

A true life-long student, Barbara embraced holistic and spiritual learning with curiosity and devotion. Meditation, yoga, and annual silent retreats were core to her practice. She was fluent in German, loved movement and intentional stillness, and believed in tending to both the inner and outer worlds with equal care.

For over two decades, beginning in 2004, Barbara was a beloved and essential part of our team. She brought wisdom, humor, discipline, compassion, and an unmistakable warmth that made every room brighter. During her Celebration of Life, we remembered her as someone who lived with purpose, spoke with conviction, and loved without hesitation. We reflected on the way she always encouraged others to pause, breathe, and stay grounded; how she reminded us that community is not something you join, but something you build; and how she consistently chose courage, clarity, and grace.

Barbara’s legacy lives on in every life she touched, every project she nurtured, and every community she helped strengthen. We are better because she was here.

Valecia is a single mother of an amazing daughter and two beautiful grandchildren. As a native of Chapel Hill and a product of the Chapel Hill Carrboro City School district, she has been a part of the team since graduating from high school in 1981. With a passion for service and people, Valecia brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity and compassion to her work. 

Eboni is a native of Miami, Florida and has called North Carolina for the past 17 years.  Her love and passion for nonprofit work began at the age of 18.  As her love for the nonprofit sector grew over the years, she knew she needed to pursue her dream of service and community, not only as a practitioner, but also as a volunteer.  Eboni received her BBA from South Carolina State University and MPA from North Carolina Central University.  In her spare time Eboni lends her expertise to organizations focusing on empowering youth and women.  She has been a member of our team since June 2022.