Meet Cheri, the heart of Nova'Lee's Way

Nova’Lee’s Way was created from my real-life experiences growing up and navigating life as a young mother while facing homelessness, instability, emotional struggles, financial hardship, and a lack of support, guidance, and opportunity. There were seasons in my life where I felt lost, overwhelmed, unsupported, and forced to figure life out on my own while still trying to survive and push forward.

As a teenager, I didn’t have real guidance or consistent mentorship. I didn’t always have people pouring into me, helping me navigate life decisions, teaching me life skills, or showing me what was truly possible for my future. A lot of things I had to learn through struggle, pain, mistakes, and survival. I know what it feels like to need direction, encouragement, and support but not always have it.

I also know what it feels like to go without opportunities and experiences that many other children and families had. Even simple things like positive outings, emotional support, safe spaces, encouragement, or having someone genuinely believe in you can make a huge difference in a child’s life. Those are the things that stayed with me.

As a child, teenager, and even as a young mother, I carried many silent struggles while still trying to build a better life for myself and my children. But instead of allowing my hardships to define me, I used them to fuel my purpose. I went from surviving difficult situations to becoming a mother, author, advocate, and earning my doctorate in Healthcare Administration — and through that journey, I realized my purpose was bigger than myself.

Nova’Lee’s Way was created because I wanted youth and families to have access to the support, mentorship, experiences, encouragement, resources, and opportunities I know can truly change lives. I wanted to build the kind of organization I wish existed for me when I was younger — a place where children feel seen, heard, valued, supported, and reminded that their circumstances do not determine their future.

This mission is deeply personal to me because I understand the emotional side of struggle — the silent battles people don’t always talk about. That’s why Nova’Lee’s Way is rooted in compassion, real understanding, empowerment, healing, and community. My goal is to create safe spaces and meaningful experiences that help youth and families build confidence, feel supported, and realize their life still has purpose no matter what they’ve been through.