A Path to Independence

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Katie                 Nalisha              Colleen

Nalisha Gibbs says “yes” to life every day.  A former resident of Marian House, she shared her story, one dominated by domestic violence, addiction and mental illness with grace and wisdom.  I won’t soon forget her words, “I got out of the man’s car and I had cigarettes, food, some money and I sat down at 4 am at the makeshift church and cried my eyes out. I wanted more.”  Nalisha, along with Katie Allston, the Executive Director of Marian House painted a picture of how women who have no where to go, who face trials and troubles most of us only read about, come to Marian House to heal, learn, find their voice and begin a new life. Marian House has grown from caring and providing shelter for 14 women to over 100 in their 30 years and that growth is triggered by Baltimore’s increasing need.  As we talked I realized the calling on their lives and in their work. Katie’s voice filled with emotion and passion as she spoke of the women who have decided to focus and begin a new life at Marian House. You could hear the conviction and confidence in Nalisha’s voice as she spoke of going back to Marian House to give back, to inspire and motivate other women to take their step forward – a woman who has opened her heart – “I wouldn’t change any part of it, it’s made me the woman I am today.”
Guests: Katie Allston, Executive Director of Marian House and Nalisha Gibbs, former Marian House resident
Guest Host: Colleen McKenna, Founder of Intero Advisory