We had the good fortune of connecting with Tracie Halcrombe and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tracie, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I want to be remembered as a catalyst for change. My legacy will represent the work that helps positively change mindsets, dialogue, and views. Education and literary are two important things to me. They both help us to navigate through life with a greater understanding of things we do not know or have been misinformed on. Knowledge is powerful and it should not be taken for granted.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Joy Inside Tears is a 501c3 organization that provides mental health and suicide prevention resources, advocacy, support, educational training, and counseling services through partnerships in the community.

My decision to enter into this space was personal after losing my son in 2021 to suicide. I had to overcome the loss and pain before starting my journey to where or what God wanted me to do with my story. It became clear to me that God wanted to use what happened for His purpose.

Today, Joy Inside Tears has partnered with over 20 organizations including Walmart, Wellstar West Georgia, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to bring awareness to suicide prevention and mental health in hopes of ending the associated stigma. In September, my organization held the first inaugural/annual candlelight vigil in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness month in LaGrange, Georgia receiving a proclamation dedication for the cause. Joy Inside Tears also facilitates a monthly community support meeting where community members can come out and share in a safe space and recieve resources.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Since our move from Ohio to Georgia, several friends have come to visit. My husband and I are retired and have exchanged the city life for the country, so I would definitely take them to see some of the beautiful sceneries by West Point Lake.

We have lots of animals in our area like horses and cows that they would be excited to ride or feed. Bass fishing is also popular. To catch, cook, and eat your own fish is also fun. Relaxing is always at the top of the list and that can be done on our porch, deck, or patio. We have slowed down a lot since retiring and enjoy our peaceful, quiet life.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my son, Noah Christopher Lockhart, in his absence here physically but always with me spiritually. All of the work that I do is in his name and honor.

Website: www.joyinsidetears.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/tracie_halcrombe?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/traciehalcrombe?mibextid=2JQ9oc

Image Credits
PBD Kayla Maddox

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