We recently connected with Kimberly Caldwell and have shared our conversation below.
Kimberly, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience stems from a combination of personal experiences, faith, and a deep sense of purpose. Growing up, I faced and overcame various challenges, including childhood trauma, which required me to develop inner strength at an early age. Becoming a single mother at the tender age of 15, has also cultivated my capacity to persevere through adversity and remain steadfast in my mission to create a better future for my family and community.
My work as a licensed social worker and dedication to supporting returning citizens have further shaped my resilience. Witnessing the struggles of those who feel unheard and unseen has fueled my drive to be a voice for the voiceless, and this passion motivates me to keep going, even in the face of adversity. I often reflect on the quote,
“What a man does in a moment does not define his life; it defines the moment!” which encapsulates my belief in second chances and the power of redemption.
My faith is the cornerstone of my resilience. I draw strength from my personal spiritual connection, which gives me the courage to face life’s hardships with hope. This faith, combined with my deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, has shaped me into the compassionate and determined leader I am today. Every challenge I face becomes an opportunity for growth, and through my work, I continue to transform pain into purpose, both for myself and the communities I serve.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As the CEO and founder of Jewel’s Comfort Keeper Inc., I lead a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting returning citizens as they reintegrate into society. Our primary mission is to ensure that individuals transitioning from incarceration have access to the resources, tools, and support they need to rebuild their lives. We provide a variety of services, from transportation to essential appointments to helping individuals obtain their CDL and find employment. Our focus is on empowerment, creating a sense of hope and providing pathways for success that uplift not just individuals, but their families and the communities in which they live.
What excites me most about this work is the transformation I am able to witness in the people we serve. There’s something truly special about being part of someone’s journey from a place of feeling lost or forgotten to discovering their strength and purpose. It’s inspiring to see individuals who have been written off by society regain their dignity, contribute to their communities, and become role models for others. The work we do at Jewel’s Comfort Keeper Inc. is not just about meeting immediate needs; it’s about long-term change, and that is incredibly rewarding.
One of our most impactful initiatives is Youth Voices for Change: Gun Violence Awareness and Prevention, a program we’re running in collaboration with United Way and other community partners. This initiative focuses on educating middle and high school aged youth and their families about the realities of gun violence, mental health, and conflict resolution. We believe that prevention through education is key to reducing violence and empowering young people to make positive life choices.
We also recently participated in North Texas Giving Day, which allowed us to raise awareness and support for our programs, helping us reach more people in need. Additionally, we have an evidence-based project aimed at addressing youth gun violence, which is especially critical given the increasing challenges young people face today.
As we move forward, we are expanding our reach and services. One exciting development is our focus on creating a safe space for men who feel unseen and unheard, many of whom struggle with unresolved trauma. Through targeted support programs, we’re addressing mental health and emotional well-being, aiming to break the cycles of trauma that often lead to incarceration or other negative outcomes.
At the heart of everything we do is GOD and the belief that everyone deserves a second chance, our organization exists to make sure they have the support to take that chance and thrive. We’re always looking for partners, volunteers, and supporters who align with our mission and vision for this work and want to be part of the positive change we’re creating.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I would say the three most Impactful qualities on my journey have been resilience, empathy, and leadership.
Resilience, has been essential in overcoming personal and professional challenges. Life is full of setbacks, but it’s how you rise after each fall that determines your path. For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace adversity. Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow. Surround yourself with supportive people and lean on your faith and your inner strength when things get tough. Resilience isn’t built overnight, it comes through perseverance in the face of difficulty, so don’t shy away from challenges.
Empathy, has played a major role in shaping how I approach both life and my work. Understanding the struggles of others has allowed me to connect deeply with the people I serve and to create programs that meet their needs in a meaningful way. For those starting their journey, I recommend being a good listener. Take the time to understand the perspectives of others, especially those whose experiences differ from your own. Volunteering, working in diverse environments, and taking the time to hear people’s stories will help you develop empathy. It’s a skill that not only enhances your ability to lead but also fosters trust and cooperation.
Leadership, is another key quality that has impacted my journey. Leadership isn’t just about having a title; it’s about inspiring others, making tough decisions, and taking action when needed. As a single mother and nonprofit leader, I’ve had to make decisions that affect not only my family but also the lives of others. For those early on, I suggest finding opportunities to take initiative, even in small ways. Leadership can be cultivated by stepping up when there’s a need, learning how to communicate effectively, and being accountable. Seek mentors who can help you develop leadership qualities, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes, every mistake is a learning opportunity.
Lastly, to those starting their journey, these qualities, resilience, empathy, and leadership, will not only help you navigate challenges but also position you to create a meaningful impact. Focus on developing them through experience, education, and relationships, and you’ll be well prepared for whatever lies ahead on your journey. “Breathe” You Got This!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, We are always looking to collaborate with like minded individuals and organizations who are passionate about creating lasting change in our communities. At Jewel’s Comfort Keeper Inc., we believe that collaboration is key to expanding our impact, especially when it comes to supporting returning citizens, addressing youth gun violence, empowering and equipping those who feel unseen and unheard.
We are particularly interested in working with professionals in mental health, social services, education, workforce development, and criminal justice reform. If you’re passionate about helping individuals reenter society, mentoring youth, or addressing systemic issues like gun violence, we’d love to connect. Additionally, we welcome partnerships with businesses and community organizations that are willing to provide resources, mentorship, or employment opportunities to those we serve.
Whether you’re an advocate, a fellow nonprofit leader, or someone with a unique skill set who wants to contribute to our cause, we’re open to working together. You can connect with us through our website www.jewelscomfortkeeper.us or email: info@jewelscomfortkeeper.us, or reach out on social media to start the conversation. We believe that through collaboration, we can make an even greater impact in the lives of those we serve and the communities we are working to uplift.
Let’s work together to turn our shared passion into action!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jewelscomfortkeeper.us
- Instagram: jewelscomfortkeeper
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JCK1915
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jewel-s-comfort-keeper/
Image Credits
TruMusyc Productions LLC
