charlene homan 4/9/24 charlene homan 4/9/24

Congratulations to Dameka “Meca” Kirkwood

Thrust into leadership

Not everyone chooses to be a leader, sometimes leadership is born of circumstances. For Dameca “Meca” Kirkwood, the first quarter 2024 honoree named by the ExtraOrdinary Woman Project BN, she chose to take a stand against gun violence after her son Trevonte Kirkwood’s tragic murder in 2018.

After her son’s death, Dameca knew she had to help others combat violence. Karen Irvin from the McLean County chapter of Moms Demand Action reached out to Dameca and together the organization is establishing a Violence Intervention & Prevention (VIP) Center among other interventions and community education projects.

Dameca says, “Violence changes lives in an instant; talking about violence saves lives.”

charlene homan 1/10/24 charlene homan 1/10/24

Congratulations to Verneice Prince

Verneice Prince holds a steadfast belief in the inherent potential for extraordinary achievement within every individual, emphasizing the crucial combination of determination and external influence. Guided by this philosophy, Verneice serves as a living testament to the power of perseverance, inspiring others to navigate life’s challenges and realize their aspirations through her own leadership.

“I don’t know where I would be if not for my mentors. I’ve been in so many different environments witnessing the good, the bad and the ugly. If certain people were not in my life as role models, there’s no way I could have navigated this far,” she shares.

No matter one’s circumstances, Verneice shows us how it is possible to overcome and persevere. That is why she has been named an ExtraOrdinary Woman by the ExtraOrdinary Women Project BN this quarter.

charlene homan 10/11/23 charlene homan 10/11/23

Congratulations to Linda Randle

Linda Randle has been named this quarter’s ExtraOrdinary Woman honoree for her bravery and willingness to help others through sharing, listening and empowering other women.