Victory Place: Breaking The Silence 2025

Honoring Women’s History Month & “Breaking the Silence” Luncheon

Theme: Turning Pain Into Passion

Date: March 14, 2026Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PMVenue: Rhoyal Bistro Live, 2352 172nd Street, (parking lot on Torrence), Lansing, IllinoisCatered by: Celebrity Chef & Gospel Vocalist Kim Stratton

Victory Place successfully hosted the Honoring Women’s History Month & “Breaking the Silence” Luncheon, themed Turning Pain Into Passion, bringing together veterans, community leaders, survivors, advocates, and supporters for a powerful afternoon of healing, storytelling, and community connection.

The Rhoyal Bistro Restaurant proved to be an exceptional venue that beautifully contributed to the success of the event. The warm environment and attentive hospitality created a welcoming space where dialogue, reflection, and celebration could flourish. Every seat in the venue was filled, demonstrating strong community support for Victory Place's mission.

The event powerfully illustrated Victory Place’s commitment to addressing trauma and creating spaces where individuals can transform pain into purpose and leadership.

Panel Discussion: Women Who Turned Pain Into Passion

Moderated by Dr. Richard Doss

The panel discussion was a powerful highlight of the program, focusing on:

• Survivorship

• Healing journeys

• Advocacy and leadership after trauma or loss

Panelists

• Representative Stephanie Kifowit – Illinois State Representative; Marine Corps Veteran

• Rochelle Crump – Founder & CEO, National Women Veterans United

• Shamika White – Founder, Blues Unveiled; Multi-Author, Internationally Renowned Life Coach, Speaker; Navy Veteran

• Tangela Thornton – Founder & CEO, Unlimited Potential NFP

• Nicole Price – Ordained Prophet, Life Coach, and Author (Solutions for the Soul; Religion Almost Killed Me)

The panel shared inspiring personal stories about turning adversity into purpose and leadership. Dr. Richard Doss skillfully directed the discussion. His thoughtful moderation allowed each panelist’s story of resilience and growth to unfold with depth and authenticity, creating a meaningful dialogue that resonated with our guests.

DJ O’Karri: Soulful ~ Inspirational ~ Restorative (SIR)

Calling him a musical genius isn't an overstatement; it’s a fact. The way he commanded the room so effortlessly was incredible — it felt like watching someone conduct an orchestra, guiding the energy of the entire space through music. His talent infused life, rhythm, and connection into the Honoring Women’s History Month & “Breaking the Silence” Luncheon event in a way words can barely express.