Today we’d like to introduce you to Iwoinakee Harris-Billups.
Hi Iwoinakee , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Finding Answers Inside the Home, Inc. was born out of lived experience, loss, and a deep desire to turn pain into purpose. In August 2017, my oldest son, Quintas, was killed by police while experiencing a mental health crisis. In the aftermath, our family was left navigating profound grief, trauma, and a system that often felt fragmented, confusing, and unprepared to support families in crisis—especially within the home, where so many early warning signs first appear.
For several years, I focused on healing, learning, and listening. I connected with other families, studied the gaps in mental health support, and educated myself on crisis response, family dynamics, and prevention. What became clear is that many families do not lack love or concern—they lack practical tools, guidance, and safe spaces to ask difficult questions before situations escalate.
In 2022, I officially founded Finding Answers Inside the Home, Inc. to help address that gap. The organization focuses on education, prevention, and empowerment, supporting families in recognizing early warning signs, improving communication, and accessing resources before a crisis reaches a breaking point. Our work is grounded in compassion, accountability, and the belief that meaningful solutions often begin inside the home when families are supported and informed.
Today, the organization continues to grow with intention. I remain closely involved in shaping its mission, partnerships, and programming, while staying grounded in humility and purpose. I don’t claim to have all the answers—but I am committed to asking better questions, listening deeply, and helping families feel less alone as they navigate complex challenges.
This journey has been shaped by loss, resilience, and a commitment to meaningful change. Finding Answers Inside the Home exists so that other families may have clarity, support, and options—long before crisis turns into tragedy.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. Like many grassroots nonprofits, we’ve faced challenges securing consistent funding, building a steady client base, establishing long-term partnerships, and developing a strong, engaged board. There have been many moments when it felt like I was carrying the vision largely on my own.
That said, I’ve come to see this season as part of a larger process. I believe God has been strengthening me through each obstacle—preparing me for the peaks and valleys that inevitably come with purpose-driven work. These challenges have required patience, resilience, and a willingness to keep moving forward even when progress felt slow.
I also believe there was nothing accidental about my life’s path or my son’s. I carry the memory of the pain, the promise, and the purpose that came from our experience. Through this journey, I’ve learned that pain isn’t always meant to stop us—it often equips us to help others. That understanding has become a quiet source of strength and clarity, especially during the harder moments.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Professionally, my work sits at the intersection of advocacy, program development, and community engagement. I specialize in building purpose-driven initiatives rooted in lived experience, strategic planning, and relationship-building. Much of my work involves translating complex, emotionally charged issues—especially around mental health, grief, and family systems—into practical, accessible frameworks that people can understand and act on.
I am known for my ability to lead with empathy while maintaining structure and accountability. I bring a calm, grounded approach to difficult conversations and am often called upon to help organizations, families, and teams navigate sensitive topics with clarity and intention. I value listening as much as leading, and I prioritize thoughtful decision-making over reactive responses.
What I am most proud of is my resilience and consistency. I’ve learned how to move forward with purpose even when resources are limited and progress is slow. I don’t shy away from complexity or discomfort, and I remain committed to doing meaningful work with integrity, patience, and humility.
What sets me apart is that my professional insight is informed by lived experience without being defined by it. I understand systems, strategy, and structure—but I also understand people. That balance allows me to show up fully, build trust authentically, and stay grounded in purpose while working toward long-term impact.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are several meaningful ways people can work with, collaborate with, and support Finding Answers Inside the Home, Inc. We welcome partnerships with licensed therapists, counselors, social workers, and community-based agencies who share our commitment to prevention, family-centered support, and early intervention. Collaborative programming, referrals, and shared educational efforts are especially valuable to our work.
We are also actively seeking male mentors who are willing to serve as positive, consistent role models for youth and families navigating challenging circumstances. Strong male presence and guidance can be transformative, and we are intentional about building mentor relationships that are safe, accountable, and purpose-driven.
In addition, individuals and organizations can support us through strategic partnerships, volunteer service, financial contributions, and professional expertise. Whether through direct collaboration, mentorship, or resource sharing, support helps us expand our reach and strengthen the families we serve.
Those interested in working with or supporting Finding Answers Inside the Home can learn more at www.findingans.com or reach out directly at info@findingans.com. We are always open to conversations that align with our mission and values.
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