Genesis Joy House Homeless Shelter, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ending chronic homelessness among our female veterans throughout the U.S. We recognize the unique challenges these brave women face upon returning to civilian life, including PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and military sexual trauma.
Our comprehensive approach includes:
Genesis Joy House empowers female veterans to reflect on their experiences and equips them with effective tools to transform their futures. Through our dedicated programs, we aim to turn thousands of lives around, helping women reclaim their independence and self-sufficiency.
Margaret’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Her life’s work is a profound testament to what happens when faith meets action, and purpose meets perseverance. From her early days helping the homeless with her grandmother in Washington, D.C., to her remarkable achievements with Genesis Joy House, Margaret’s story is a powerful narrative of love, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication.
Margaret’s heart has always been open to those in need. Her role as a Certified Therapon Biblical Counselor and Human Rights Consultant is more than just a profession; it’s a calling that merges her faith with a deep-seated desire to make a difference. Each step of her path has been guided by a clear sense of purpose and a heartfelt commitment to helping others.
In 2011, Margaret took a leap of faith, driven by a profound sense of mission and a fervent prayer for guidance. Her vision for Genesis Joy House was born out of a deep desire to support unhoused female veterans, and her journey was marked by countless challenges. From navigating her battle with breast cancer to managing the complexities of starting and running a nonprofit, Margaret faced every obstacle with grace and resolve.
Genesis Joy House, now valued at $1.2 million in assets, has undergone a remarkable transformation from a dilapidated property into a vital facility which is a testament to her resilience and God’s grace. It serves as a beacon of hope for many veterans, providing comprehensive support that includes counseling services, basic life necessities, and practical resources. This revitalization helps veterans successfully reintegrate into society and regain their footing, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.
Margaret’s ability to rally community support, secure funding, and transform lives demonstrates a profound and genuine love for her fellow human beings. Her personal sacrifices and the tireless efforts of those who rallied around her during her illness are a testament to the deep respect and admiration she commands.
Her story is a reminder of the power of walking in one’s purpose and trusting in a higher plan. Margaret’s life is a vivid illustration of how one person’s faith and determination can bring about remarkable change. Her example inspires all who hear it, showing that with unwavering faith and dedication, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome and profound good can be achieved.
Margaret’s legacy is not just in the buildings she has created or the money she has raised, but in the countless lives she has touched and the hope she has instilled in others. Her journey is a heartfelt reminder that when we follow our purpose with conviction and love, the possibilities are truly boundless.
Dustin was born in Pensacola, FL, and grew up in Fort Walton Beach, where he was actively involved in sports, playing basketball and tennis throughout his school years. After graduating high school in 2000, he joined the United States Coast Guard, serving four years as an Operations Specialist at various duty stations, including Detroit, Virginia Beach, and Honolulu.
Currently, Dustin is a store manager for Walmart, where he demonstrates strong leadership and commitment to his team. He is married and has a young son, and together, they are eager to engage in community service and make a positive impact in their local area. Dustin’s dedication to service, both in his military career and in his current role, reflects his strong commitment to his family and community.
Mark Clark, originally from Rockford, IL, is deeply committed to serving veterans and active-duty military personnel, inspired by his father, a WWII veteran who earned multiple Bronze Medals in the Pacific Theater. With a focus on the VA Loan industry, Mark is certified by the Veteran Lending Council and dedicates his time to educating veterans, active-duty members, and real estate and mortgage professionals about the benefits of VA Loans.
During his college years, Mark captained the University of Minnesota soccer team and continues to enjoy sports in his spare time. He has successfully built multiple businesses, including a manufacturing company, Raw Pharma, and an energy shot brand, Rhino Rush, where he served as Chief Operating Officer until their sale in 2020.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mark has volunteered extensively in the LDS church, holding various leadership positions, including in Young Men’s and Priesthood Presidencies. He is a proud father of six and a grandfather to one, residing in Braselton, GA, with his wife and youngest son. Mark’s dedication to his community and the veteran population reflects his passion for service and leadership.
Kimberly White is a native of Macon, Georgia. on June 21, 1963. Kim is married to the handsome Eddie L. White, Sr., who is truly her superman, soulmate, and her calmness in a time of need. The couple is sometimes fondly referred to as “Team White” by colleagues, family, and friends.
Kim’s career at Robins Air Force Base was very rewarding. She worked in several different positions at Robins including in the Base Civilian Personnel Labor Relations Office for over 15 years, where she was over the Base Alternate Dispute Resolution Program. Kim has been a part of the APRI family for over 10 years, and a community activist for over 30 years. Kim has a passion for helping others. If she could, she would try to save the world.
Kim and her husband Eddie are the proud owners of That One Mediation & Diversity Solutions which is a for-profit business and Helping Others Foundation of GA, which is a non-profit in Macon, GA. She is the Executive Director of Helping Others Foundation, where she created the community Wonderful Water Wednesday for Environmental Justice. Kim is a member of Ekklesia Christian Worship Center where she proudly serves as a deaconess, church administrator, hospitality, senior usher board, and assistant leader of the Covered Girl Women Ministry. Kim is an active member of APRI, AFGE, NAACP, and she partners with several non-profit organizations like BVM, Fathers Among Men, Teens to Queen, Hour of Power and Hiding In Plain Sight. Kim is a true “CHANGE MAKER,” Making a Difference in the LIVES of others! She believes in Economic, Environmental and Social Justice for Jobs, Community, Government and in Our World Affairs! Kim is a True Community Activist, and she actively supports existing APRI Chapters and other organizations with her compassion for helping others.
Chief Warrant Officer Five, Sonia Peeples Graves Rivers sacrificed selflessly to improve the state of the United States Army since joining in 1981.
CW5 Graves Rivers served four combat tours. Bagram, Afghanistan where she served as the first female accountable officer. She received the Bronze Star Medal during her deployment to Tallil, Iraq where she served as a Transportation Officer and the first female to run a joint distribution center. She also served 2 tours at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico.
Her final assignment was as a Quartermaster Senior Warrant Officer Capability Developer for the United States Army Futures Command at Fort Lee, Virginia. She served for 40 years, 3 months, and 8 days of distinguished service. She received the Legion of Merit medal in February 2021 and Retired in March 2021.
She is 4th Generation serving in the Army and her son MSG Jovano Graves is 5th generation. She gives back by notarizing Floridian Veteran’s documents for free and provides donations to Faces of Courage, My Warriors Place, and Dress for Success Tampa Bay.
A proud native of Senoia, GA, Addison Bearden is a passionate advocate for homeless female veterans, a cause close to his heart after losing a loved one who served. Raised in a military family, he deeply understands the sacrifices made by service members and is committed to helping female veterans rebuild their lives.
As National Sales Manager for RV Wheelator, Addison uses his RV industry expertise to develop affordable housing solutions. He also owns nomAddy Digital Marketing, supporting small businesses and nonprofits through branding and digital outreach.
A former college class president and football team leader, Addison has successfully launched multiple businesses, including Wow! Inflatables. He is a member of the Axis Leadership Team, a John Maxwell-certified group focused on leadership and personal growth.
Addison has been instrumental in building partnerships for Genesis Joy House, including with Campers Inn and Texas Roadhouse. He lives in Bonaire, GA, with his wife Rebecca and their four children, continuing to serve through innovation, leadership, and community-driven impact.
In the late 1990s, Sharon joined the City of Warner Robins and the Houston County Housing Authority as a Resident Services Coordinator/Program Director. This role allowed her to combine her professional skills with her heartfelt compassion for people. She provided essential supportive services to seniors, facilitated social services and community relations, and built partnerships with local agencies. Notably, she planned and coordinated the largest Back to School Bash in Middle Georgia and implemented an on-site GED program through Central Georgia Technical College, focusing on life skills training to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency.
Sharon has received two Collaborative Partnership Awards from the Georgia Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authority and is proficient in grant writing, having secured multiple federal grants. As the Director of Development at the Housing Authority, she managed procurement and contracts while overseeing all non-profit activities and operations.
Now, as she steps into a new chapter as Program Director at Genesis Joy House Homeless Shelter, Inc., Sharon expresses her excitement about the future: “I see only great things ahead to an already beautiful painting.” Her passion for helping those in need drives her commitment to supporting unhoused veteran women and others in the community. Sharon believes in the power of collaboration, stating, “Together in numbers, we are stronger. I’m looking forward to giving back and embracing this challenge because I’m doing what I love!”
