Empowering Women and Transforming Lives: The Inspiring Journey of The Dignity Project in East Dallas
I live and work in East Dallas. I have chosen a life of lifting women out of darkness and journeying with them on a path of healing, love, and light. Doing this work is actually what has lifted me out of my own darkness.
My husband and I founded a 501c3 called The Dignity Project. Under The Dignity Project, we operate a DBA called Well Grounded Coffee Community. We hire women in need of a second chance: felons, pregnant homeless, addicts, abused, sex trafficked, etc. We train them and give them job skills, help them begin college classes, earn a good used vehicle, and find safe affordable housing. We are opening our second DBA called Well Rounded P.I., pizza and Italian ice, to open new opportunities to give second chances.
Getting to know Natalie
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am married to a wonderful man named Michael. We have 8 beautiful children, four biological, and four adopted.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
My studies have been in psychology and adult education. I have worked in many settings doing case management with people of all ages and all walks of life. I love building transformational relationships and walking with people toward healing.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Lounge Here & White Rock Alehouse
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Approximately 7 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Too many to mention, however, I met and built a friendship with Jeff Snoyer, the owner of Highland Park Cafeteria. We purchased many items from the cafeteria from the auction when they closed and you can find them all at the Coffee House.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Just returned from Sicily. This was my second visit. The ocean is majestic and the people are very kind.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Selena, I love how she worked hard to overcome prejudices.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Seek a life of victory and not “victimhood”. Walk a path of healing and light and bring others with you.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Plitvice National Park in Croatia
Q: What is your go-to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Indigo Girls. I’m a hippie at heart!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Highland Park Cafeteria. I used to meet there weekly with a networking group, East Dallas Network.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Expanding The Dignity Project to continue serving more women.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love pottery. It’s my therapy. I must create!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and the best single day on the calendar?
April, Easter, Mother’s Day
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Red wine from Mt. Etna!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Jesus!
Q: How do you ignite kindness in your community?
Love on all the customers and build relationships so they feel “seen”.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Essential oils: lemongrass
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safe, peaceful, loving
