Meet Maria Manson | Tutor & CEO

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

Hi Maria, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m from Charleston, SC where southern hospitality is everything! My background and upbring impact my work values: integrity, honesty, and servant leadership. I strive everyday to serve others the way that I would want to be served. It gives me great joy to see others meet their goals and gain confidence to accomplish it. From a child, I was taught how saying “please” and “thank you” takes you a long way. Also, greeting others with a smile or hug is a game changer(especially when someone needs it to encourage them.

What should our readers know about your business?
Grace Haven Inc. is a non-profit organization serving women and children of domestic violence. I believe what sets us apart from others is our passion to meet individuals where they are. We strive to apply the F.R.E.E. (families. restoration. education. empowerment.) model in every event. The upcoming events: Unmask 1 Million Gala, Women’s Released Retreat and Afterschool Tutoring are primary examples how we serve in the community. It was not easy getting to where I am today business-wise. My vision was heard but not clear and there was no balance in my professional and personal life. I wanted to continue my role in the school system as an educator and CEO for Grace Haven. However, I learned that I could pursue my passion and purpose with Grace Haven Inc. and decided to resign as a teacher. I must admit its challenging but worth it.
I want the world to know the positive impact we make when we are able to help families gain back their livelihood. I share my story to empower others to level up. There are several components to Grace Haven: Wives on Fire Mentorship Program, Afterschool Tutoring, Journey2Purpose(life coach) and Future Gen Achievers(teen mentoring). This is evident that I did not overcome overnight, but the process of healing requires each one of us to receive help along the way.

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?
Now anyone who knows me, know that I love praise and worship, food, a good laugh. If my best friend was visiting the area, our itinerary for that week would include attending Freedom House Church International (Pastor Addison and Lady Twanna), Next, we would be online checking out upcoming events and restaurants at Ponce City Market–there’s so much to do from shopping, making candles, strolling down the beltline or walking down to Piedmont Park. Then, we’re going straight to Uptown Comedy Corner.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shoutout my mom, Marie Smalls. This woman is my best friend, mentor, life support, and go to person! I know that her nagging and prayers is the reason I am successful at assisting others to reach their goals. I’ve watched my mom serve as a wife, mother, sister, aunty, and so much more…that explains why everyone calls her “Mommy”. She will give the truth even when I don’t want to hear it. Thank you Mommy for being You!

Website: https://gracehaveninc.org/

Instagram: @gracehaveninc

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/maria-manson-6a85381b0

Facebook: @gracehaveninc

Youtube: @mariamanson4792