Valerie L. Brown, affectionately known as Lady B, was raised in a two parent Christian home and was taught to have great core values and a belief in God. Having a wholesome background and belief in God did not however, eliminate her from the plague that many women face today, domestic violence. Although she never witnessed any form of abuse in her home growing up, she experienced domestic violence in two previous relationships she was involved in.
Reversing her tragedy to triumph, in 2012, Valerie founded the Lady Be Free Resource Center for Women, Inc., a 501c3 non profit organization whose mission is to break the cycle of domestic violence and transcend its impact through evidence based programs that provide protection, education and prevention. She birthed the organization through her very own experiences that she believes will help those that are in the shoes she once wore.
Lady Be Free mentors survivors who are residents of local shelters, provides resources for housing and job placement, participates in community events, educates local organizations by facilitating domestic violence workshops for both adults and young adults. Realizing the outcome of mentorship with survivors, Valerie began hosting quarterly retreats for women which offers various types of therapy, outings, spa services and so much more.
Valerie received her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from American InterContinental University and a Master’s of Science degree in Transformative Leadership from Bethune-Cookman University. Valerie is a Certified Transformational Coach, Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) and is a Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP). Additionally, Valerie has over twenty years of experience in Healthcare Administration. Most notably, Valerie is currently employed by one of the world’s largest healthcare organizations where she serves as the Ethics & Compliance Officer.
In 2017, Valerie was recognized by Bethune-Cookman University as a 40 under 40 award recipient for exemplifying the organization’s values in service to her local community. Valerie was also recognized by Mount Olive Development Corporation as one of its Community Leaders of 2019 for exemplary leadership and service to the community.
Valerie is a two-timed author, with an additional two books on the horizon. She is a sought after empowerment speaker and has provided services for organizations such as The National Coalition for Black Civic Participation, Zonta International, Women in Distress, Boca Raton Housing Authority, Broward County Schools, Miami Dade College and many other organizations throughout the community and abroad. Valerie has been featured in South Florida Times, Shine on South Florida and Voyage Mia to name a few.
She is a single mother to her only son Mason and loves her family immensely. Valerie attributes her success to several individuals from her family and has taken the onus to continue the legacy of faith, family and love to all of whom she encounters. Valerie has touched many lives, whereby planting a seed each time. She is a victor, she is free and she is no longer silent.
