About Us

About Survivors Light

Survivors Light was founded to provide hope, healing and support to individuals, families, and communities impacted by trauma, violence, grief, and crisis. 

Our organization is built on the belief that healing is possible and that no one should face life's challenges alone. Through trauma-informed care, victim advocacy, prevention, education, crisis support, and community partnerships, we strive to strengthen communities and empower survivors to move from pain to purpose.

Our Story

Survivors Light was born from personal experiences with grief, trauma, and loss. Founder and Executive Director Diane Hairston has experienced the devastating impact of gun violence, domestic violence, and the challenges that follow life-changing events. 

Through her work in mental health, crisis intervention, victim advocacy, and financial education, Diane recognized that many survivors struggle to find support that addresses both emotional healing and practical needs. Survivors Light was created to bridge that gap by providing compassionate, trauma-informed services that help individuals and families rebuild their lives. 

Today, Survivors Light is committed to empowering survivors, strengthening communities, and helping people move from pain to purpose. 

Our Vision

To create resilient communities where individuals affected by trauma have access to support, education, resources, and opportunities for healing and growth. 

Mission Statement

Survivors Light is dedicated to empowering and supporting survivors of violence, trauma, grief, and crisis through advocacy, prevention, education, and compassionate support services. Through outreach, emotional wellness initiatives, financial literacy education, crisis response support, and community partnerships, we strive to foster healing resilience, stability, and hope for individuals and families impacted by trauma and violence. 

Through prevention initiatives, awareness campaigns, grief support services, community education, and survivors centered programs. Survivors Light is committed.

 Survivors Light Board of Directors & Leadership

Dedicated to turning pain into purpose through advocacy, compassion, education, and community service.

Diane F. Hairston

Founder & Executive Director

Lakeya Jernigan

President

Kim Franklin

Secretary

Troy Halbert

Treasurer

Teresa Smith, NP

Director of Health & Wellness

Monica Rhodes

Director of Human Resources & Volunteer Development

Monique Alexander

Director of Operations & Strategic Initiatives

Khytenia Ward

Director of Community Engagement & Special Events

Together, our leadership team is committed to strengthening families, empowering survivors, and building communities where hope and healing can flourish.

Survivors Light — From Pain to Purpose.