I met Valerie Parks several years ago while attending our community church in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. She has been a supportive friend, listener, and voice of reason to myself and many others. She attributes her balanced mindset to living intentionally and surrounding herself with those who encourage and challenge her in a healthy way. Early on I could see that she had a driven quality about her. I was intrigued when she shared stories about volunteering in Romania with her sister. They gathered supplies and toys in the states and traveled the long distance to Romania to spend time with the children there. This revealed her giving heart. Valerie shared that living with purpose is making small right choices each day, even if your vision and goals change along the way. Our purpose evolves and can shift direction at any time. This alternate path should be embraced. We are often led to a new place that can be even more rewarding. We discussed the importance of life balance and evaluating how time is spent. Consider how goals affect your loved ones, they should always be considered. These days, when Valerie has the opportunity to attend a women's group, she finds herself in a position to share life lessons and is able to pass on her knowledge to the younger generation. She wants to save them precious time and from unnecessary hurdles. I see her as a blessing and her priority above everything else is God and her family. Valerie spent years homeschooling her boys that are now grown men. She and her husband currently enjoy precious moments and new memories with their grandchildren.  She wants to be a good example, to make a difference, and is living with purpose. In the business world, she consults organizations on how to move toward growth and gives direction on fundraising. Valerie is currently the president of CARHA - Christian Action & Relief for Haiti. This organization provides education, evangelism, and economic opportunities to the area. Orphans have a place of refuge and over a thousand children in the village and surrounding areas are learning to read and develop life skills. CARHA also assists during emergencies such as flooding and droughts. If you would like to learn more please visit: https://www.carha.net 

 Jessica Morneault