Check Out Shirnetta Harrell’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shirnetta Harrell.

Hi Shirnetta, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Growing up in Nash County, NC, I experienced a lot of adversity that led to me to the profession of social work. I was able to take seasons of trials and triumph to transform into a profession that could ultimately provide holistic support for others. Furthermore, I founded The No Woman, No Girl Initiative based on professional observation yet, personal experiences. As a social worker, I spent years of stabilizing children and families after they’ve experienced crisis, transition or disaster. Throughout my social work career, I noticed disproportionate percentages of women and girls lack access to everyday essentials that are needed to survive. I found myself searching across multiple cities and states to navigate locating resources that could meet such an overwhelming need. Most organizations could provide feminine hygiene products but, they couldn’t provide an entire supply of everyday essentials that could provide some sustainability. As a social worker, we are trained to locate resources and alleviate barriers to accessing those resources. For me, I couldn’t find the resource so, I created the resource and that’s how The No Woman, No Girl Initiative was founded. I truly believe that no woman and no girl should ever have to worry about everyday essentials to survive.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Absolutely! Struggles are a part of the process. As to any new nonprofit organization, people want to know the Executive Director and they want to figure out why our organization is different than the thousands of organizations in the state. My response is always, we are a nonprofit that provides 16 types of everyday essentials and we believe that no woman and no girl in Wake County, NC should ever have to survive without them. We also provide a 90 day supply currently of these essentials but, we plan on providing 365 essentials within the next two years.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve been a social worker for over seven years. I’ve practiced in residential treatment facilities, I’ve done trauma-focused work, I’ve worked in behavioral health, mental health and schools. I’d like to say that I’m most known for community engagement and bridging relationships. I truly believe that we are better together and when we can collaborate with others, that’s when change has the capacity to move.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
If others are looking for a mentor or networking, I always tell people to simply ask. When I reflect on the women in my life who are influential and aspirational, mentorship came by me asking them and telling them my story. People are drawn to authentic mentorship that allows others to build organic relationships with others so that goal setting and growth can happen.

Pricing:

• $164.73 – sponsors 1 90-day referral bag for women and girls.
• $88.20 – sponsors 1 911 referral bag for women and girls.

Contact Info:

• Email: shirnetta@nowomannogirl.com
• Website: www.nowomannogirl.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nowomannogirl/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-No-Woman-No-Girl-Initiative-100257898791862
• Other: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/triangle-sandhills/news/2021/04/03/helping-women-in-need-gives-out-90-day-supply-of-essentials

Image Credits
Em Bateman – Professional Photographer