We were lucky to catch up with Christ-lee Lizaire-ganthier recently and have shared our conversation below.
Christ-Lee , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with talking about how you serve the underserved, because in our view this is one of the most important things the small business community does for society – by serving those who the giant corporations ignore, small business helps create a more inclusive and just world for all of us.
The Pelagie Resource Center, located in Conyers, GA, is committed to serving underserved communities by connecting individuals to much-needed resources. Our mission focuses on supporting those escaping domestic violence, living with HIV/AIDS, veterans, and individuals living below the poverty threshold.
One story that highlights our impact involves a Navy veteran who came to us after losing their home and struggling to navigate the complex network of support services. At the Pelagie Resource Center, we connected the veteran to emergency shelter, identification assistance, and workforce development programs. Through these resources and our partnership with Qualified Staffing Conyers, the veteran was able to find stable employment and regain a sense of purpose.
This story underscores the importance of addressing gaps in access to critical resources. By connecting underserved individuals to tailored services—like emergency housing, employment opportunities, and more—we aim to foster long-term stability and resilience.
Helping individuals like this veteran drives our mission to empower communities and bridge systemic gaps with compassion and dedication.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
The Pelagie Resource Center, located in Conyers, GA, is more than just an organization—we are a lifeline for individuals and families facing adversity. Founded by Dr. Christ-Lee Lizaire-Ganthier, a former U.S. Navy Command Career Counselor and a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, the center emerged from a deep-seated passion for service. With extensive experience in nonprofit work and a strong background in veterans’ affairs, Dr. Lizaire-Ganthier envisioned a place where people could find dignity, stability, and hope.
Our journey began with a mission to empower underserved communities, specifically those escaping domestic violence, living with HIV/AIDS, veterans, and individuals living below the poverty line. We provide essential services such as emergency shelter, identification vouchers, workforce development support, and connections to vital resources. By addressing these pressing needs, we help clients regain control over their lives and pave the way toward a brighter future.
What sets us apart is our personalized approach and unwavering commitment to advocacy. We don’t just provide services; we create pathways to stability and empowerment by partnering with organizations like Qualified Staffing Conyers to connect clients with job opportunities and with Second Helping to support law enforcement officers with healthy meals. Our ability to foster partnerships amplifies our impact and strengthens our community connections.
We are proud of the lives we’ve touched and the transformations we’ve witnessed. One of our proudest achievements is our Homeless Veteran Outreach, where we’ve helped countless veterans find shelter, employment, and a renewed sense of purpose. These success stories fuel our mission and remind us why we do what we do.
For those learning about us for the first time, we want you to know that we are more than a resource center—we are a partner in your journey to stability and hope. At the Pelagie Resource Center, we believe everyone deserves a chance to thrive, and we are dedicated to making that belief a reality.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
At the Pelagie Resource Center, our journey has been one of unwavering resilience and determination to serve those in need, even when faced with challenges that could have derailed our mission. One story that stands out occurred during the early days of establishing the center.
Funding was scarce, resources were limited, and we were confronted with skepticism about whether our vision could truly make an impact. During this time, we met a single mother fleeing domestic violence with her young child. She had nowhere to go and no access to essential resources. Despite our limited capacity, we pooled together what we had—emergency shelter assistance, donated supplies, and a referral to a partner organization.
This encounter reinforced our purpose and fueled our drive to overcome the hurdles we faced. We redoubled our efforts to secure funding, form partnerships, and expand our services. Through persistence and a community-focused approach, we gradually built a network of support that could meet the growing demand for our programs.
Today, that mother has rebuilt her life and works as a case manager, helping others escape the same struggles she faced. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience—not just hers, but ours as well. It reminds us that even when the odds seem insurmountable, staying true to our mission and finding creative ways to overcome obstacles can lead to transformative change.
This journey illustrates that resilience isn’t just about enduring challenges; it’s about using those challenges as a foundation to build something greater. For the Pelagie Resource Center, resilience is woven into everything we do, driving us to create a lasting impact in the communities we serve.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Managing a team and maintaining high morale requires a combination of empathy, clear communication, and a focus on fostering a supportive environment. Here’s the advice we’ve found most effective at the Pelagie Resource Center:
1. Lead with Empathy and Compassion
Understand that your team members are individuals with unique challenges, aspirations, and needs. Make an effort to get to know them, listen to their concerns, and show genuine care for their well-being. A little understanding goes a long way in building trust and loyalty.
2. Set Clear Expectations and Goals
Clarity is key to reducing confusion and ensuring alignment. Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and objectives. When team members understand how their contributions fit into the bigger picture, they feel more connected and motivated.
3. Encourage Open Communication
Create an environment where feedback flows freely in both directions. Encourage your team to share their ideas and concerns, and make sure they know their voices are valued. Regular check-ins, team meetings, and open-door policies can help foster this culture.
4. Celebrate Achievements
Recognize and celebrate wins, no matter how small. Whether it’s a shoutout during a meeting, a handwritten note, or a team lunch, acknowledging hard work and success shows appreciation and boosts morale.
5. Invest in Professional Growth
Offer opportunities for training, skill-building, and career development. When team members feel they are growing and learning, they are more likely to remain engaged and committed to their work.
6. Foster Team Collaboration and Unity
Encourage collaboration and team-building activities. Create opportunities for team members to work together on projects or participate in fun, non-work-related events to strengthen relationships.
7. Be Adaptable and Inclusive
Adapt to different working styles and be inclusive in your leadership approach. This flexibility helps accommodate diverse team dynamics and creates an environment where everyone feels they belong.
8. Lead by Example
Your team will follow your lead, so demonstrate the values and behaviors you expect from them. Be consistent, dependable, and positive, especially during challenging times.
9. Provide Support During Challenges
When things get tough, step up to support your team. Offer resources, lend a listening ear, and help find solutions. Knowing they have a leader who has their back can significantly boost morale.
10. Promote Work-Life Balance
Encourage your team to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives. A well-rested and supported team is a productive and happy one.
By fostering a culture of respect, support, and continuous growth, you create an environment where team members feel valued and motivated to give their best. High morale isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating a team that’s inspired and fulfilled.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pelagie.org
- Facebook: www,faceboo.com/pelagiefoundation
Image Credits
Kesner Ganthier