Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Shepherd’s Door, Women Wealth Warriors to Host Survivor Empowerment Luncheon Thursday

By ANDRÈ COLEMAN, Managing Editor

Shepherd’s Door and Women Wealth Warriors will host a financial empowerment and entrepreneurship awards luncheon Thursday honoring women who have overcome domestic violence, trauma and other hardships while working to rebuild their lives.

The event, “From Survive to Thrive,” will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 16 at the Robinson Park Community Center, 1081 Fair Oaks Blvd., and will recognize participants who have completed an eight-week financial literacy and entrepreneurship cohort designed to support long-term stability.

“The luncheon will highlight the importance of economic independence as a key step in recovery, while celebrating the progress of women who have transitioned from crisis toward self-sufficiency,” said Co-founder Tunisia Offray.

Participants bring not only professional goals, but also lived experience, strength and resilience, making the luncheon a reflection of healing and transformation.

The event, supported in part by Pasadena Federal Credit Union, will include lunch and opportunities for attendees to connect with community leaders, volunteers and supporters.

Shepherd’s Door offers an eight-week Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurship cohort. The program equips participants with tools to build careers, launch businesses and manage their finances.

The program will feature Keynote Speaker Joanna Mills, a Shepherd’s Door alumna, who is expected to share her personal journey of overcoming adversity and finding purpose.

A panel discussion moderated by Entrepreneur and Board Member Kimberly Ross will explore pathways to financial empowerment, while Host Bonnie Hall, also a Shepherd’s Door alumna, will guide the program.

Women Wealth Warriors Founder Offray, who is leading the initiative, said the event is intended to uplift women by helping them recognize their value and potential beyond their past circumstances.

A central message of the event is reflected in an affirmation shared by organizers: “I survived … and now I thrive by walking in my purpose, owning my power, and building the life I deserve.”