Exploring Life & Business with Cassetta Scott of Chrissy’s Place of Refuge

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cassetta Scott.

Hi Cassetta, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
Absolutely! Chrissy’s Place of Refuge was created upon the premise of my life. Initially, I lived with my mother, 2 sisters, and 2 cousins who I refer to as brothers. My mom, a hard-working woman who never received support from my father but who also never received support from the government to thrive and take care of us. Looking back on her leadership, love, and guidance, I never truly understood what strength and resilience looked like until I became an adult. Thinking about it now, she was the seed, and how she carried herself as an independent-strong woman created the strong woman I am today! Despite a wonderful start, my transition to becoming an adult resulted in my premature status of becoming a mother at the tender age of 20. I was on every available resource to single young mothers that DHHS could give me. I used those services to support me; however, I did not know how hard it could be with elevating and transitioning off government assistance! Still struggling but working diligently, a few dollars above their eligible financial criteria would result in services ending and a feeling of failure. Knowing the resilience of my mother, the support of my family, and my determined mindset, I worked diligently to change my situation. If I did not have the support of my family (mentally, physically, and financially), I would not have made it! After my first degree, things began to change for me dramatically; however, it was not the ultimate change that I was looking for. It was not until I finally ended up with 2 master’s degrees and on the other end of the bracket with income that I felt and experienced the relief. It was then that I soon learned the dilemma of those of the working population. You never truly understand experiences until they become lived experiences. When receiving those government benefits and obtaining those tax breaks, my mindset was, “Why are they always upset!” I soon discovered that the weight that the working population experienced did result in a tremendous amount of stress with the financial responsibility of keeping others afloat. Having lived on both sides of the spectrum, I understood fully what was needed to help both groups. That would be the working population supporting others less fortunate than them and giving them a fair chance at life with opportunity. The opportunity for one person would be the opportunity for others within their family construct! It would also be a financial relief of those within the working population. The true definition of one hand washing the other. 

The vision is enormous; however, with the support of everyone involved, it will be life-changing for everyone. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
A vision with a plan or without a plan will never be a smooth road in my eyes! A vision takes not only the hard work and dedication of yourself but the dedication of others who specialize in things you don’t. That comes with differences of personalities, opinions, and visions on their end of what they think your vision should look like. That alone can be an uphill battle! Luckily, I am connected to supporters who understand what my vision looks like, and they are ready to support me and be open to sharing additional insight without the forced agenda of doing what they think or desire. To me, that is teamwork that works hand in hand! The second biggest struggle would be the financial support to make this dream a reality. A plan that benefits both, but unfortunately, minimal engagement. Some responses reflected that it was an awesome idea, but due to my color, they would not support someone of color. The impact of those words was strong, but my dedication to bringing about change is much stronger. Whether it’s a year, 5, or 20 years, my dream is to have this support in place for families no matter of the obstacles that I’ll face or the adversity that it may bring. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My organization is a nonprofit that is focused on change and support. What a difference it would make to shift from temporary support to permanent support. To take the resources of many and combine it in one centralized location to ensure that families have a higher probability of elevating and becoming self-sufficient. We are modest in the fact that we are different. Our entire panel comes from a history of poverty to some extent to now a part of a thriving community. As the CEO/Founder our dedication runs deeper than the image of the community. I am proud of the work that we have done and the dedicated staff that I have that is equally driven as I am to complete the vision. 

I would like the readers to know we are offering several events that give back to the community and raise money for the goal, which is providing these resources in one centralized location. 

Alright, so before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
We are currently seeking support through volunteering, collaborating, and/or support. We encourage you to email us at chrissysplaceofrefuge@gmail.com or call us directly at (919)593-1108 to inquire about how YOU or your organization can be a vital support with our organization. Take an opportunity to review our website as we have the following events pending: 

1. Healing The Community Through Sound 2024- We are seeking sponsorship at this time.

2. Chrissy’s Place of Refuge Toy Drive for Low-income families

3. Chrissy’s Food Drive-Ongoing support for the community and families in need

4. Chrissy’s Clothing Closet-Ongoing support for families in need of clothing and shoes

5. Hope for the Homeless: Support for the homeless.

https://chrissysplaceofrefuge.org/ 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chrissysplaceofrefuge.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrissysplaceofrefuge/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChrissysPlaceofRefuge
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissysplaceofrefuge-8b55a322a/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrissysPOR