Spotlight of the Week: Ms. Tonya Kelly, MEd – A Beacon of Hope and Advocacy
Date: (June 5th, 2024)
This week, we shine the spotlight on an extraordinary individual whose dedication to education and community service has touched countless lives: Ms. Tonya Kelly, MEd.
Ms. Tonya Kelly is the CEO and Founder of Empower Our Youth Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to bullying prevention and community advocacy. Ms. Tonya’s journey into activism began in 2017, when her second daughter experienced severe bullying, leading to thoughts of suicide.
Witnessing her daughters and granddaughter suffer from bullying firsthand, Tonya channelled her pain into purpose, founding Empower Our Youth to support families and combat bullying in schools and communities.
A seasoned educator, Ms. Tonya serves as a fourth-grade teacher at Horizon Science Academy Elementary in Columbus, Ohio. Her dual roles as an educator and community leader have allowed her to share her testimony and serve as an anti-bullying advocate.
Over the past three years, she has tirelessly mentored students, assisted families in reporting bullying incidents, and provided vital resources and support.
Unfortunately, since December last year, Ms. Tonya has been facing a severe medical emergency that has impacted her ability to walk. She requires major colorectal surgery, neurologist and spinal treatments, urology treatments, and other medical interventions.
The financial burden of mounting medical bills, coupled with losing her beloved job as a Principal at Bridge Gate Community School, has placed a significant strain on her family.
To support Ms. Tonya during this challenging time, her daughters Melanie, Zahynia, and Janae have set up a GoFundMe campaign. Your generous contributions will help alleviate the financial burden and support Tonya’s journey to recovery.
Donate here: [https://gofund.me/b23feabb]
Ms. Tonya is now home, but her recovery journey is far from over. We continue to pray for her full recovery and appreciate any support you can provide.
