Before Black History Month ends, we’d like to take a few minutes to introduce you to (or help you become better acquainted with) a dedicated and godly African American leader in our midst, Annetta Wright, Director of The Elizabeth House.

Annetta has been with Care Net as The Elizabeth House Director for since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and a Master of Arts in Counseling.

Annetta prays for God’s favor for the women of The Elizabeth House. She loves to see the transformation that happens in the women’s hearts. She loves to watch them grow in their faith in

God and in their confidence in themselves. And she loves to see them growing to become the best moms they can be.

One of Annetta’s favorite transformation stories involves Erica*. Annetta was reluctant to accept Erica into The Elizabeth House because of problematic parts of Erica’s background that made her success in the program questionable. However, Annetta listened to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and made an exception for her. Annetta admitted Erica to life at The Elizabeth House. Erica blossomed and flourished.

With the staff and volunteers of The Elizabeth House walking alongside her, Erica began to “rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated.” Isaiah 61:4.

“Erica stuck with the program and turned her life around. She became one of the best residents,” relates Annetta. Erica’s story was a cause for rejoicing. We celebrated the work God had done in her life.

Annetta is inspired by her hero, Sojourner Truth (born Isabella Baumfree). Truth was an African American abolitionist and women’s rights activist. She was included in Smithsonian magazine’s list of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” in 2014. Annetta admires Truth’s inner strength.

In her free time, Annetta enjoys writing, especially young adult fiction, although she is currently working on an idea for a middle grade non-fiction book. She also likes to kayak and be with her husband, children and family. Annetta enjoys going for long walks around her neighborhood and spending time with friends.

Those of us who work with Annetta are blessed to interact with this passionate, caring woman on a daily basis. Her devotion to pray for the women of The Elizabeth House and the way she embraces each one to help them move toward healing and redemption is exemplary.

*Name changed to protect privacy.