Staff
Board of Directors
LATOSHA BARNES
Founder/Executive Director
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Latosha D. Barnes, “A voice for the Voiceless” is an astonishing speaker, advocate and author, who informs, motivates and empowers women from all aspects of life. She is also a survivor of Domestic violence who has a passion and determination to help others overcome, move beyond abuse and ultimately find their freedom.
While healing from her own abuse, God blessed and trusted her with the ultimate assignment of birthing and building Patricia’s Place Domestic Violence Shelter. This Harvey IL native earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisplinary studies and two Master degrees in Criminal justice and Addiction Studies. Currently the Founder and Executive Director of Patricia’s Place and also a first time publisher, Latosha uses her voice, personal experience and education to enlighten others to help release them from domestic violence bondage and escape the chains that once had them bound. She takes pleasure in counseling and empowering women who are or were victims of Domestic Violence know their worth and encourage them to walk in their divine destiny.
She is a champion in fighting against Domestic Violence and an extraordinary masterpiece in her walk with Christ. Latosha is the proud mother of six daughters, a loving wife, and the author of Unveil, a ten step self-help guide and activity resource to healing from DV. She is the creator and an accomplished planner when it comes to events for Patricia’s Place.
Latosha has spent her time diligently volunteering for homeless, DV shelters and her church ministry. She has received recognition for her commitment and dedication to her academic honors, various certificates and a life time member of O.E.S.
TIFFANY FRANKLIN
Secretary, Governors State University
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My name is Tiffany Franklin I am 39 years old, a wife and mother of 4 children, 3 daughters and 1 newly adopted son and I am a domestic violence survivor. My passion has always been for hurting women not knowing at some point I would be one. I have experienced a few forms of abuse in my life, however I refused to allow it to break me. I am very active in charitable contributions in and around the community, my church, The Order of Eastern stars and now Patricia's Place. I take giving back very seriously and It is my sincere prayer that God continues to shine his light through me to help women who have been through or currently involved in Domestic Violence situations and even those that are suffering silently. Through prayer and the word of God my mission as a person is to aid and assist in those suffering to break free and find their voice to end the struggle.
SEAN BROWN
Attorney, Mississippi College School of Law
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Sean Brown is the principal attorney at The Law Office of Sean Brown where he represents individuals and small companies in both criminal and civil matters. Sean previously worked as a prosecutor at the Cook County State's Attorney's Office where he zealously sought justice for victims of violent crimes. He received his bachelor’s degree in sociology and philosophy from the University of Dubuque, and he earned his law degree from the Mississippi College School of Law.
PRICILLA MORALES
Treasurer, Clark Atlanta University
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Sean Brown is the principal attorney at The Law Office of Sean Brown where he represents individuals and small companies in both criminal and civil matters. Sean previously worked as a prosecutor at the Cook County State's Attorney's Office where he zealously sought justice for victims of violent crimes. He received his bachelor’s degree in sociology and philosophy from the University of Dubuque, and he earned his law degree from the Mississippi College School of Law.
Advisory Council
JOALLYN PORTER
Community Liaison
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Joallyn Porter serves as the Community Liaison and Chairman of the Konfident Closet for Patricia’s Place, a community based nonprofit women, and children domestic violence shelter organization.
Joallyn received her bachelor degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff as a STEM scholar in Biology Pre-Pharmacy with a current pursuit for a Ph.D. in Pharmacy. As an alumna of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Ms. Porter has established herself as a self- starter and leader throughout her volunteer and professional work experiences. Prior to that, Ms. Porter continues to actively serve her community by participating in various activities and organizations such as serving as an active member and mentor of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Delta Omega Omega chapter as well an part-time recreational Specialist at the Chicago Paul A. Simon Job Corps Center as well as a Home Care Aid with Addus Home Healthcare.
Joallyn has always been very dedicated and hardworking. When trying to achieve her goals she does not let any obstacles get in her way; she preserves and keeps working towards her dreams. Joallyn’s future is as bright as long as she keeps her strong faith and remembers what’s truly important in life.
In her spare time, Joallyn enjoys spending time with her family and friends as well as listening to music and shopping.
She leaves a positive affirmation to all obstacles survivors, “when preparations meet opportunity you have success; because what’s simply stopping you; but you."
VANESSA JACO
Business Consultant
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State of Illinois-Business Enterprise Program for the Blind
Personal: Wife, mother, enjoy cooking, shopping, movies and traveling
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Education: BA Education -Roosevelt University 2000
MS Addiction Studies -Governor State University 2010
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Business: Herbalife Distributor
Certified Zumba Instructor
K-3 tutor
Upcoming Project in the making: Co-Founder/CEO -Education Revamp, Inc
Saturday Academy
Volunteer Work: Feed the homeless during holiday season
Visit elderly in convalescent home