Aha!

Brad and Laura Spaulding

Chaplain at Marketplace Ministries and Nurse at HomePointe HealthCare, aka Santa and Mrs. Claus

"Five years ago, we began our journey toward becoming The Merriest Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus. It all started with one event—the holiday party for residents at YWCA Northeast Indiana. That was one of the most memorable experiences in our lives as we witnessed—even for a brief moment—how the joy and happiness on the faces of the children and women when seeing Santa was transformative. Visiting Santa was something “normal” when everything else in their lives was painful and nowhere close to resembling any form of normalcy.

As we handed out presents, held children on our laps, and posed for pictures, we realized that playing these two iconic roles was a way to uniquely demonstrate Christ’s love, compassion, and kindness to people everywhere at Christmas. God had gifted both of us with a love for children—especially those experiencing difficult circumstances—and so, we decided to use these gifts by portraying Santa & Mrs. Claus at various events each year throughout the Christmas season. Even though our Santa season is much busier now, we will never forget that first event and the joy we experienced that year at YWCA’s holiday party."

Keiara Carr

Director of Mission Advancement, Amani Family Services, Inc.

“My ‘Aha!’ moment came from a quote I once read by Socrates: ‘The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.’ This insight helped me see the beauty in letting go of the need to always be the smartest person in the room. It allows space for listening, vulnerability, curiosity, and, ultimately, deeper learning.”

Beth Boatright

Director of Community Partnerships and Programs, Allen County Public Library

“I've spent a lot of time in recovery meetings. One of my ‘Aha!’ moments was realizing the power of going first. The first person to contribute sets the tone for all the contributions that come next. If I share about hardship, the room becomes a safe place for others to share their hardship. If I share about joy or gratitude, other people start thinking about their own joy and gratitude. If I'm willing to trust someone by being vulnerable and open, I'm more likely to hear honest and valuable truths from them in return. It's a principle that is true in recovery meetings, but also at family dinner tables and even in boardrooms.”

Paula Hughes-Schuh

CEO, YWCA Northeast Indiana

“My ‘Aha!’ moment was recognizing that trauma impacts people and how they form relationships in the future. So many people experience trauma at an early age, which impacts them for the rest of their lives. So be kind- it’s true that you don’t know what they have been through.”

Cassius OA Stallings

Wellness Coordinator, HealthVisions Midwest of Fort Wayne

“To God be the Glory, I love that this highlights people that are believed to be local celebrities. My ‘Aha!’ moment was realizing that I come from a background that would not naturally produce great outcomes for my life, however because of the belief of others in me I am able to stride in my community to make change and to believe in others as well!”

Julian Teekaram

Anchor/Reporter, 21Alive

“I think if you look closely, ‘Aha!’ moments happen all the time in life. One that comes to mind right now for me is learning how to remain true to myself and stay in my power, despite outside influences. Working in television, people have a lot of opinions about you. Your hair, your makeup, your style of reporting… the list goes on. I find that when I’m my genuine self, I’m the happiest and can perform at the highest level.”

Danielle Burns

Chief Operating Officer, Three Rivers Business Interiors

“The first time I attended YWCA’s Circle Luncheon, I was deeply moved by the mission to combat domestic violence and racism. Hearing the gut-wrenching stories of resilience and breaking barriers truly opened my eyes. That was my ‘Aha!’ moment—realizing I was there for a reason. It inspired me to make a difference in whatever way I could. After that luncheon, I joined the Circle Committee and take great pride in what we achieve together each year. Supporting this mission is a true blessing!”

Shinisha Warfield

Human Resources, Allen County Government

“One afternoon, I was browsing through the shoe racks at Von Maur. As I browsed, I heard a voice. ‘Hey, I could not help but notice that you have a zipper too,’ said the woman. I had no idea what this meant until she pointed to my chest. I froze for a moment, her words hitting me in a way I never expected. I felt that feeling of self-consciousness. My hand darted to my chest, where the scar from my open-heart surgery protruded slightly from beneath my shirt. I had spent years trying to cover it up, fearing judgment, and struggling with insecurity. Curiosity turned into vulnerability as I found myself sharing my insecurities with a stranger. ‘That scar,’ she said, ‘that is a warrior wound. It tells a story of survival, strength, and perseverance. You have fought a battle and come out on the other side.’

In that moment, something clicked inside me—a profound ‘Aha!’ moment. I realized that my scar was not a source of weakness but a testament to my journey. It was a physical reminder of the strength I possessed, the battle I had fought and won. It stood as evidence that God had a plan for my life, one filled with purpose and resilience. My heart swelled, feeling empowered. For the first time, I saw this mark on my skin not as a flaw or a source of shame; it was a symbol of survival and hope.

I had a ‘zipper,’ a symbol of my survival and it was a powerful reminder of all that I had overcome. My scar was not just a part of my past; it was woven into the fabric of my future, filled with purpose and promise. The self-consciousness was replaced by a sense of ownership over my story and that change was something to celebrate, not hide.”

Rev. Angelo Mante

Executive Director, Alive Community Outreach

"When I first moved back to Fort Wayne, I worked part-time at the Center for Nonviolence, engaging in batterer intervention work. An unexpected part of my training was going through the program as a participant, which meant facing my own violence and discussing it openly with other men in the program. I never saw myself as violent, but I came to discover that there really is no such thing as a ‘violent person’—just humans who have all committed acts of violence, ranging from the severe to the everyday. This profound ‘Aha’ moment taught me that while the levels of accountability differ, violence is part of the human condition we all share. This realization deepened my empathy and sharpened my awareness of the continuous inner work required for accountability and growth, as well as for peacemaking and building a Beloved Community."

Dottie Davis

Founder/Owner, Davis Corporate Training, Inc.

“I have learned that my path from victim to survivor is just that…MY path. It does not always look the same for others. Each person must be allowed to walk their own path, at their own pace, and with the support from us when they are ready and able.”

Danielle Flora

Attorney, Danielle L. Flora Attorney at Law

“My 'Aha!' moment was when I realized adverse childhood experiences, such as witnessing domestic violence, can have long-lasting effects on a person’s physical health, to the extent that a person's life could be shortened. When I thought about the victims and children who were raised in homes with domestic violence, the consequences to them and society as a whole staggered me. It is very empowering to be a part of the team that started the Allen Superior Court’s Domestic Violence Problem-Solving Court. I truly feel that I have made a tangible difference in the lives of domestic violence survivors and their children.”

Troy Hershberger

Allen County Sheriff

“I learned through my mother, Audrey Hershberger, the challenges women face regarding gender equality, especially in the workplace. Watching her work in a time of underrepresented women in leadership positions, systemic discrimination and stereotypes, there was an inequality despite her very capable skills and qualities . My “Aha!” moment has been although gender disparities still persist today, women bring innovative thinking, effective communication, adaptability, empathy and an emotional intelligence that make for great leaders and a positive work environment. As Sheriff of a work environment that tends to be more male-dominant, I recognize the valuable traits and skills that women bring, making us a stronger, more developed cohesive unit.”

Aisha Pearson

Director of Residential Services, YWCA Northeast Indiana

“I used to think empowerment meant offering positive solutions for people to ‘fix’ things. Throughout my journey in this work, I have learned the value of understanding someone else’s ‘why,’ and their perspectives, values, needs, goals, and motivations. My ‘Aha!’ moment occurred when I learned that true empowerment begins with voice and choice.”

Melinda Haines

Chief Executive Officer, The Literacy Alliance

“A light went on for me when I realized that an education is what you make it. You can learn anything if you put your mind to it.”

Heather Bontempo

Community Engagement Manager, 3Rivers

"Strong women often handle unexpected situations, and they are not defined by these circumstances but learn and grow through them. The combination of positivity and determination can drive women to achieve success in both their personal and professional lives."

Denise Mills

Sr. Managing Director, Business Development, Creative Financial Staffing

"A previous co-worker often said that people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Throughout my life, both personal and professional relationships have made me realize how different and yet how alike we all are. We all want to feel the care and concern of others, yet our perception may be vastly different, based on our background. My 'Aha!' statement is to always assume goodwill and to remember that we each come from different places, with different experiences."

Emily McCorkle

Engagement Coordinator, YWCA Northeast Indiana

“Much of my life has been spent fighting anorexia and bulimia. During those times, I was labeled by my peers as the 'anorexic girl' and no one lent me their ear or extended a helping hand. Because of my experience, and the example shown to me by the caring staff at Selah House, I learned that listening to others and extending compassion is incredibly powerful in that person’s journey. Whether they are struggling with an eating disorder, or just having a bad week at work, we all can be that overflowing well of support to another person.”

Erick T. Baker

Director of Community Outreach, Erin’s House for Grieving Children

“I have had many ‘Aha!’ moments in my life. Some were huge epiphanies, while others paled in comparison. However, the most important and profound event that empowered me happened when I was in a not-so-happy place. At the time, I was dealing with major losses in my life. The pain seemed insurmountable until a very special person told me to read the Book of James. It inspired me to keep going and showed me that trials and tribulations are blessings in disguise that shape our faith. From there, I realized that the things we endure are not challenges but are gifts for our spirit. This was my ‘Aha!’ moment! Now, I smile at the opportunities that life's challenges offer, and I have learned that true empowerment comes from empowering others.”

Jennifer Campbell

Dean of Student Life - Fort Wayne, Manchester University

“All humans have needs, such as health, security, purpose, connection, etc. The people you choose to welcome into your life should help you meet those needs. They should respect those needs. When I really owned the idea of needs and stopped feeling bad for making sure my needs were met, I became better able to help others meet their needs as well. I can now tell when I have stopped taking care of my needs because I can see how it negatively impacts my interactions with all those around me. When I am taking care of my needs, my interactions are healthier, wrapped in kindness and honesty. An 'Aha!' moment for me is the realization that people don’t always remain in your life the same way, though. Realizing you are no longer important to someone else hurts, but it’s an opportunity to grow and move forward to taking care of your needs. This can be very scary but also very freeing. It can be an amazing adventure leading to a more amazing you.”

Amanda Framme

Senior Paralegal, Lincoln Financial Group

“A time I felt empowered was when I stood up for myself at a job and requested a raise. I had been taking on more responsibilities and thought I deserved more, but I was afraid to advocate for myself. Taking the initiative was terrifying, but I felt so empowered when I finally did it and received the raise. My 'Aha!' moment was witnessing first-hand that we need to move forward, even through the fear. We may not always receive what we are advocating for, but at the very least, we will feel empowered.”

Patty Dunn

Development Specialist, Women’s Fund

“Last year at a Coffee & Conversation event, I heard a call to action that was my 'Aha!' moment, and since then has been a personal mantra. 'Be courageously soft' encourages us to embrace variability, but it also serves as a reminder that it is through our authentic tenderness we can empower others. There is so much strength in giving voice to your hardships, fears, and emotions. I believe we create a more loving world when we choose to be courageously soft.

YWCA’s staff and supporters advocate for living bravely and building a more compassionate community. So please remember, no matter what, there is power and strength in being courageously soft!”

Donna Masterson

Assistant Director of Residential Services, YWCA Northeast Indiana

“A few months ago my pastor was talking about pausing under pressure and I often go go go. This has really stuck with me because it’s not the pressure, it’s the pause. The pause brings clarity in situations.”

Sandra Sullivan

Retired Medical Technologist and Chemistry Supervisor

“'Always be ready to learn new things,' is what Sister Luciata at the St. Anthony Hospital Laboratory shared with me a long time ago. It was an 'Aha!' moment for me as I realized that change is necessary, and being receptive to learning new things is important. Leading change can feel empowering. I led a change in the dress code policy at a former employer, which felt very empowering as I fought against a status quo mentality. Be willing to accept change but also to lead change."

Judy Roy

VP for Finance and Administration, Indiana Tech

“Years ago, I attended YWCA’s Circle event. The keynote speaker was Sara Hall. She was a victim of domestic violence who reclaimed her life through the rigorous rhythm of rowing. She became the 1998 World Master Champion in the women's single shell. My ‘Aha!’ moment was learning that lives that look perfect on the outside can hide a life that is anything but perfect. Domestic violence crosses age, race, gender, and socioeconomic boundaries. It can happen to any one of us. To this day, her book sits on my bookshelf as a reminder of the power that women can find to take back their lives, given support.”

Julia Stambaugh

CFO, YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne

"I have learned the importance of dreaming big. It can be common for people to let their own self-doubts negatively affect what they believe they can accomplish. Being confident in our talents and dreaming big goals often comes with a few barriers along the way. An 'Aha!' moment for me was when a former boss taught me the value in having difficult conversations that include grace and transparency. As a result, I have grown so much from this lesson."

Darius Darling

HR Specialist - Recruiting, Brotherhood Mutual

“There was a time in my life when I dreaded doing what seemed to be thankless and meaningless tasks. That was until I had a conversation with my mom, Valerie Messiah, who gave me my most memorable 'Aha!' moment. She told me, 'Son, you do what you have to do today, so you can do what you want to do tomorrow!' It was then that my life and perspective changed forever!”

Deborah Zehr

YWCA Board member and Co-Chair of YWCA's Marketing & Development Committee

"There is a term called 'glimmer,' which is opposite of a 'trigger.' Glimmers are micro moments in your day that make you feel joy, happiness, peace, or gratitude. An 'Aha!' moment for me is when I learned that we can train our brains to be on the lookout for glimmers. The more we are on the lookout for glimmers, the more these tiny moments will begin to appear, and you start to see things differently."

Courtney Washington

Clinical Psychologist, Parkview Health

"An 'Aha!' moment for me was when I learned the freedom that comes from empowering yourself. Empowerment can come from releasing yourself from guilt and shame restrictions that prevent you from being your authentic self. I felt empowered when I realized that I didn’t need to fit into feminine stereotypes to be a good woman. We should be genuine to ourselves even if it doesn't look like what society tells us."

Cammy Sutter

Community Volunteer

"As a young leader of women’s retreats, a mentor encouraged me to trust the capabilities of women! Women are smart, strong, and get things done. My 'Aha!' moment is just how much I can lean on them!"

Heather Essex-Guy

Racial Justice Coordinator, YWCA Northeast Indiana

"Allies come from all backgrounds. I was at a locally owned spot and the bartender and I struck up a conversation. He asked me my job and I replied that I am the 'Racial Justice Coordinator' for YWCA and explained what that means. He shared with me that he grew up in a small not diverse town, where bigotry was normal, stating that hearing that talk made him uncomfortable so he moved to the city as soon as he could. He assured that my job is necessary to help people like him to do and be better!"

Casey Claypool

Marketing and Development Manager, Citilink

“My ‘Aha!’ statement is the more I’m me, the more I’m enough- showing up fully authentic, using my voice, and experience has led me where I was meant to be.”

Melanie Hall

Retired, Fort Wayne Community Schools

“I used to take things personally and get my feelings hurt. My 'Aha!' moment was when I realized that how people act is usually a reflection of what is going on in their lives and may have nothing to do with me. This made me think more about others’ feelings and what I can do to help them, as opposed to what is wrong with me.”

Kim Carpenter

VP of Client Experience, Ash Brokerage

“I felt empowered when I changed my mindset to promote other women versus comparing myself to them. Everyone has their own unique and special gift. My 'Aha!' moment was when I realized I don’t have to be like others but I can instead celebrate them!”

Carla Kilgore

Director of Mission Advancement, YWCA Northeast Indiana

“It is one thing to know there are racial disparities in health and life expectancy, but it is another to experience a colleague suffering from diseases related to stress or having parents pass away young from preventable diseases. I really feel the privileges bestowed upon me based on the zip code where I grew up and the education my parents had access to. These insights have been an 'Aha!' for me, as well as the amount of work still needed so that everyone in our community has the same opportunities for good health, access to a quality education, and affordable housing.”

Randy Rusk

Community Affairs Manager, Do it Best Foundation

“I’ve found that most people are willing to give their time, talent, and treasure when you can clearly articulate the why and then provide a path towards action.”

Kathy Gaines

Happily Retired

“Empowerment can come when someone sees an ability in you and trusts you to do something you never would have dreamed of. This happened for me, and because of this, one of my 'Aha!' moments was when I learned from Fort Wayne Community Schools leadership that 'hope is not a strategy.' If we are looking to have different results, we will continue to receive what we always have received if we continue to do the same things. For change, empower others. See the ability in others. Trust in others.”

Ginny Clark

Founder of Bookstart and Community Volunteer

“In 2000, I knew it was important to select books that showed minority children in the illustrations so that the families of color could see themselves in the books. My 'Aha!' moment was when Jennifer Hayes, who was helping with the Read to Me program, pointed out to me that it was equally important for White children to see others in lead roles in the stories. This 'Aha!' moment changed my book selection process and my understanding of racism ever since.”

Kara Densmore

Community Executive Assistant, Old National Bank

“My daughter teaches me every day to be flexible and to treat everyone with kindness. She may only be three years old, but she shows me the importance of having fun in everything we do. My ‘Aha!’ moment is that learning can come from people of any age.”

Joyce Armstrong-Brown

Co-Owner, Aegis Sales & Engineering

"My 'Aha!' moment was realizing that we all want the same thing—to know that we matter. I love Maya Angelou’s words: 'People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you make them feel.' I strive to make the people I encounter feel seen and heard."

Kim Murphy

VP of Shared Services, Ruoff Mortgage

"I've had micro 'Aha!' moments throughout my entire life...a lot of them probably subconsciously! But every time I volunteer, or donate, or read a book or article, or have a conversation with someone, or attend an event, etc; I am actively aware of an 'Aha!' moment. And those golden nuggets are what keep me engaged and inspired to be more and do more!”

Marsha Smiley

Community Advocate

"While teaching third graders, I witnessed a child express fear of Asian people when I informed the class that Chinese guest speakers were coming to share their culture. My 'Aha!' moment was when I saw how engaged this child became with our guests while learning to use chopsticks. False perceptions can change with exposure to real experiences."

Steve Sullivan

Retired Educator

"We all have an opportunity to learn from others. I feel empowered when others look to learn from me. An 'Aha!' moment for me is when I elected to speak up at a Fort Wayne City Council meeting, which is when I discovered just how empowering speaking up on something I believe in can be. We all have a voice, and we should feel empowered in using it."

Harini Bonam

President, Sangam Fort Wayne
Young Women & Girls Committee
YWCA Circle Steering Committee
Community Advocate

"My 'Aha!' moment happened when I became a part of YWCA's Circle Steering Committee. It was the realization that my voice advocating against domestic violence, as an Asian American and Brown person, might encourage victims (men or women) to come forward and seek help. They don’t have to live in shame and fear. I feel it is my duty to continue to bring awareness, including my friends and family."

Hannah Shoue

Grants Manager, YWCA Northeast Indiana

"Before working at YWCA, I didn't know much about domestic violence or addiction. I applied to YWCA Northeast Indiana to use my skills to help women and further their mission. In my time here, I've greatly deepened my knowledge of how domestic violence and substance use affect women in particular, in addition to systemic barriers such as racism and misogyny. My 'Aha!' moment is that now, knowing that 1 in 3 women in our community have experienced domestic violence and understanding the clinical nature of substance use disorder, I have greater compassion for the variety of challenges facing women and survivors. I am honored to be able to make a slight difference in the circumstances of others through my role at YWCA."

Cheri Becker

Principal, Becker Consulting

"Leadership is a gift and privilege built on trust. To be a leader in the advancement of women, one must be willing to add your name to bring someone else forward. An 'Aha!' moment is that women cannot afford to stand in the shadows. Look for ways to help advance others. Seek out. Stay curious."

Tamyra Kelly

Public Information Officer, East Allen County Schools

"An 'Aha!' moment for me was when I realized that when we choose to forgive it opens up blessings that are stored up just for us! After you forgive…breathe, smile, and move forward."

Kayla Luithly

YWCA Northeast Indiana Marketing and Development Committee Member

"At times, I have experienced imposter syndrome. It was an 'Aha!' moment for me when someone I admire confessed that they, too, experience these feelings at times. Being authentic and vulnerable can be freeing! The more I practice being me with people I trust, the more I discover the beauty in it, especially during tough times."

Tom Salzer

Principal, Health & Wellness Market Leader
Elevatus Architecture

“Much of what I know about being a professional and a good family man I learned from my father-in-law, Bob Sebastian. He taught me how to set my priorities, with family coming first. My ‘Aha!’ moment is that not everyone has had support from family. I have an ‘Aha!’ moment at almost every YWCA board meeting when I hear what our clients face and how we help them.”

Dawn Clopton

Vice President - Community Development, Premier Bank

"In my spare time, I get the opportunity to coach cheerleading. Over the years, students come and go. Some names and faces I remember, but some I don’t. It wasn’t until my 7th year of coaching that I had a former student return to thank me for setting their life on the right path. While she was my student, she was homeless. But because I made an effort to keep her on my team and on a regular schedule with the others, she was able to build confidence, make the most of her situation, and learn valuable lessons about family and community. She was able to graduate and even attend college. She credits her success partly to me because I didn’t give up on her. My “Aha!” moment is to never give up on anyone because of their temporary circumstances. Help them overcome it!"

Becky Hill

Retired, former CEO of YWCA Northeast Indiana

"Rosetta Moses Hill helped me and everyone else realize how racism affected her on a daily basis. She was the best teacher. My “Aha!” moment is that we need to continually be learning to be good students of those around us."