Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Downing.
Hi Karen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I am the younger of two children raised in a single-parent household by our mom. After completing high school, I attended an HBCU – Norfolk State University, where I had the opportunity to gain employment with the Department of the Navy as a federal employee while a student. This led to a career that spanned 30 years and provided work experience in Human Resources, Strategic Planning, Process Improvement, and Compliance Inspections. The expertise and experience gained fueled my desire to help individuals, groups, small businesses, etc. with gaining the knowledge to grow and improve their businesses. Created4Change, LLC was launched because “change can be challenging and I wanted to help others navigate the journey” providing consultation, coaching, and facilitation in ministry and leadership development, strategic planning, process improvement, church administration for the ministry, marketplace, and movements. I currently serve as the Executive Ministerial Assistant at Jerusalem Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Richard Holland as well as a Community Advocate serving on local, regional, and state boards, commissions, and committees centered around ministry, education, housing, health, inclusivity, and social injustice. My work in the marketplace, community, and ministry is centered around Proverbs 31:8-9 (NLT) “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.”
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road. I have encountered several bumps in the road. In 2009, I was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune condition that requires regular monitoring with medical specialists, management of the condition through tests and several medications, and for me to rest frequently. Thankfully, the progression of the condition has not required any recent invasive medical procedures. My faith in God allows me to take each day as it comes, do what I’m physically able to do, and to leave the rest in His hands. In 2016, our mom passed away suddenly that caused me more trauma than I realized or acknowledged. God has been healing my mind and my heart through this loss. She was our biggest and loudest cheerleader for whatever we did. Created4Change, LLC has given me a second wind to provide services to others even though living with some limitations. My message is “it’s never too late” and “we all have been created for a purpose”.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Created4Change, LLC is a woman and minority-owned small home business specializing in consulting, coaching, and training in ministry and leadership development, strategic planning, process improvement, and church administration. I believe these services are unique because of the potential demographics I can reach and serve. I provide services in ministry, marketplace, and movements. Initial consultations and follow-up services may be scheduled at calendly.com/created4change. Services are primarily provided virtually through a video conferencing platform.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
The things that matter most to me are: God being glorified through my work, mission and purpose; the community being uplifted and advanced, and that I leave a path for others to follow as I hand off my baton. These three matter to me so my life, the works of my hands and the legacy I leave would please God; it would help someone ekese to keep dreaming and believing in themselves that all things are possible and that their lives Canale a difference.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: @Created4Change
Image Credits
Rev. Dr. Lisa Johnson
lcjfotoministry
Mrs. Chantel Williams
Maxxtell Creations
