Joi Spencer Restores The Joy

Joi Spencer can be defined as a woman who has outstanding values, an enormous heart, and a dedication to restoring the joy and happiness in the lives of others. Her goal in life is to help at least one individual and make a difference in their life.

She believes that the main thing that has motivated and driven her to do what she does today is being in an abusive marriage for 13 years. When she was in this situation, she told herself if she were to ever get out, she would dedicate herself to helping other women and/or other individuals who may or might have been in that same situation. “I am a survivor of domestic abuse”, stated Joi, “and I want to help others!”

On December 23, 2009, Joi and her daughter had their first encounter with Covenant House Michigan. They both had volunteered on a personal basis with the clothing and hygiene products in the storage area. She has now been involved with CHM for approximately 8 months. Joi chose to volunteer her time with CHM for because of her 13 year old daughter. “I wanted to show her how to give back to the community at a young age” Joi explained. “I wanted her to appreciate what she has, to see that there are kids around the same age as her that are going through hard times, and most importantly, to be willing to help others.” There were specific moments that kids at CHM have touched Joi and have changed her life. The two things that really grabbed Joi were with Tanisha, Martin, Jonathan, Martell, and Nathan; one was seeing these young youth who were at first uncomfortable with individuals, but then opened up and shared things that they have experienced; second was to see the desires they have of wanting to go to college. They all showed her that they have a plan to do better; they are driven.

Today she owns her own non-profit business - Restore the Joi. This business includes the programs of life skills, mentoring youth and wellness. The life skills and mentoring youth program is a six week program for youth to show their talents or skills to help further themselves. During this program, Joi helps by encouraging kids that there still is hope. “One day your situation can be one way, however,” Joi stated, “it doesn’t have to remain that way!” During the program, individuals such as attorneys, music producers, directors over health careers at Michigan State University, cosmetologists and barbers are brought in. Depending on what the youth are interested in, it varied the individuals’ time with the kids. These individuals share with the kids what it’s like to get into the field, what kind of classes they need to take, and other valuable information that will support their decisions in pursuing their path to their career choice. If Joi gets the chance to visit CHM again, she wants to cover her wellness program with the kids. Joi is all about wellness and empowering yourself; it’s important that kids learn healthy lifestyles and apply those to their life.

What energized Joi to motivate others is, “As a desire I have had, it’s easy to help your family, friends, or loved ones, but it humbles you,” explains Joi. “It makes you become selfless instead of selfish when you help others in need that perhaps is not a family member.” In words of encouragement, the one thing that she leaves with us all today is to be proactive to help others!

Thank you's go to Joi Spencer for the time that has been given and to the many other volunteer’s that have contributed generous donations. It is greatly appreciated.

To find out more information on donating and helping, please contact Melissa Golpe at (313) 463-2005.