Meet Crystal Allen-Joyner and Jerell Joyner of FACTS (Families Are Coming Together Strong)

Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Allen-Joyner and Jerell Joyner.

So, before we jump into specific questions about your organization, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In 2017 my husband retired from the United States AirForce. During his last tour, he was stationed at Howard University as their ROTC Commander for Flight Deck 130. Our sons and I remained in Georgia because this was only a two-year assignment and we felt it would be best to remain in GA during his short tour. A military transition can be difficult and oftentimes taxing on the member as well as their dependents. During his retirement transition, I decided to seek out opportunities we could participate in as a family as an effort to merge the two households. In 2016, we participated in our 1st 5k walk/run “Victory for Veterans,” which supported military members and their transition out of the military. Who would have thought one 5k would have been the catalyst for our participation in many other races, all of which have inspired other families to get moving.

We never realized how our participation in family activities had such a positive impact on members in our community and around the world via social media. Little did we know… God had a plan! He would use our participation and commitment to each other to bring about a greater purpose that far exceeded our imagination (Jeremiah 29:11). In November of 2019, we hosted our own 5k. Since November 2019, we have added to our services in such a way that we feel meets the needs of the family. Our mission is to provide an avenue to build and unify the family that places a special emphasis on increasing physical wellness, mental wellness, and financial literacy. We believe hosting activities and events, inspiring people, and empowering the family is the most effective way to ignite and build strong families.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
So far, things have fallen in line; resources have become available. I believe the only challenge was identifying the educational resources on how to become a non-profit.

Please tell us about FACTS (Families Are Coming Together Strong).
FACTS (Families Are Coming Together Strong), Inc. is a non-profit organization that seeks to provide financial literacy, mental health counseling, and physical wellness opportunities specifically to individuals who receive any of the six major United States welfare programs. It is our mission to counsel, coach, and to empower individuals to improve their quality of life and relationships through personal growth and personal finance.

One of the things that make FACTS unique is our holistic approach to getting the entire family involved in its overall wellness. We believe once we are able to get the parents on board in the areas of effective communication and finance, the children will follow. All of our services are free to individuals that qualify, but we do extend our services to individuals who do not qualify for free services at a reduced rate. We believe FACTS has the ability to change lives and we look at it as our opportunity to give back.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
While there are numerous qualities and characteristics that are vital to success, I believe our passion towards building and reunifying the family is closest to our hearts. In addition to our ability to connect with our clients in such a manner that removes judgment and opens an all-inclusive environment also adds to our success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.3factsinc.org
• Phone: 478-302-0664
• Email: 3factsinc@gmail.com
• Facebook: FACTS (Families Are Coming Together Strong), Inc.

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