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Program Alumni Spotlight: Naylan Joi Holman-Paris

We’re proud of our program graduates and praise God for their continued growth and mentoring of others to grow their faith and walk in Jesus! For this month, we’re highlighting Joi’s work in the community, specifically Jim Riley’s Blake’s House in which she mentors women who have aged out of the foster care system.

Why did you join The S.A.L.T. Connection program?

When I decided to join The S.A.L.T. Connection program I had recently become divorced after 19 years of marriage and was in the process of rebuilding my life. Although I was involved with a church, I was yearning for a more intimate connection with God. He led me to Charita, and she introduced me to the SALT Connection class. I was very eager to join. 

What challenges did our program help you with?

There were about 12 women in my 2017 graduation class with whom I was able to laugh with, cry with, worship with and learn with. Over time, I was able to bond with my SALT sisters and share my life experiences with them. We shared triumphs, new beginnings and sometimes losses.

My soul was comforted knowing, at any time, I could not only reach out to my sisters, but also to Charita whenever I was in need. It was even more of a blessing knowing I would do the same for them. It had been years since I was able to allow that kind of trust in my life and God made it possible through the S.A.L.T. Connection program. 

How has our program helped you pour into others?

God has given me the opportunity to teach and mentor young women through Blake’s House, which is a program designed to help young women who have aged out of the foster care system. I’ve also been blessed to obtain a certification in Spiritual Direction from SMU’s Perkins School of Theology. Now that I am an empty nester, I am looking forward to finishing my Master of Divinity very soon. 

What is one main reason you would encourage another woman to join our program? 

I would always encourage women to form connections with other women of strong Christian faith. Having that constant reassurance that you are not alone will do wonders on your walk with God.  Joining the SALT program will allow you to be held accountable but will also nurture your soul. 

You WILL be changed, healed and delivered and in return, God will give you opportunities to do the same for other women that He will place in your path. You will never be the same! 

Interested in sharing your alumni story? Email us below!