By Marc Murray on October 29, 2024
In the heart of Brooklyn, Delva Douglas is on a mission to uplift, inspire, and empower survivors of cancer and other illnesses, as well as caregivers. The Circle of Champions Celebrating Survivors Inc. was founded 10 years ago. The Circle of Champions is not just a support network—it’s a community where everyday heroes are celebrated for their resilience. For Delva, the work is deeply personal.
A Personal Inspiration
The name Circle of Champions Celebrating Survivors Inc. was born out of Delva’s experience with loss and survival. After losing her mother to multiple myeloma and supporting a close friend through breast cancer, she felt compelled to create something meaningful. “I wanted to celebrate survivors by giving them support and a helping hand,” Delva explains. Her mother, who worked as a mental health therapy aid for NY State, always instilled in her the importance of giving back to the community. This early influence guided Delva into social services and eventually led her to create The Circle of Champions Celebrating Survivors Inc.
A Safe Space for Growth
The Circle of Champions offers more than emotional support. They are a dedicated support group and advocate for raising awareness about various struggles, including cancer, domestic violence, bullying, HIV/AIDS, autism, and more.
It is, in fact, a safe space where survivors and caregivers can find resources, education, and a community that understands their challenges. Through community events and workshops, Circle of Champions Survivors Inc. helps people move from simply surviving to thriving. “We create a place where you are seen and heard,” is the organization’s motto. She emphasizes how important it is to feel heard and validated.
As Circle of Champions celebrates its 10th anniversary, the organization looks toward the future. The founder dreams of expanding the organization’s reach across all 50 states. Currently, it serves communities in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, and in Georgia virtually. Consequently, the organization is now able to provide support and empowerment to even more people, helping them live fulfilling lives despite their hardships.
Honoring Everyday Champions
Every November, Circle of Champions hosts a special event to honor survivors and caregivers. This year’s event on November 16 is particularly meaningful, as it marks the organization’s 10-year milestone. “We recognize everyday people who have shown courage and strength,” the founder states. The event is not just about struggles—it’s about perseverance, finding hope, and thriving against the odds.
One of the organization’s key members is Vice President Elizabeth Jenkins. Elizabeth is a breast cancer and three types of arthritis survivor who also battled COVID-19, spending two weeks in a coma. After waking, she spent 130 days in rehabilitation to re-learn how to walk, but nothing has stopped her. “She’s a deacon at her church, a mentor, and a constant source of support for others,” Delva shares. Elizabeth’s journey is a perfect example of the resilience and strength that Circle of Champions celebrates.
A Growing Legacy
Circle of Champions continues to grow and impact more lives. In August, the organization completed a back-to-school drive in Brooklyn. In September, they supported Theresa Tucker, a 2017 Multiple Myeloma honoree. Furthermore, this October, they are partnering with Elizabeth Jenkins, a 2015 Arthritis Honoree, and Team Brooklyn Spice for the Breast Cancer Walk in Coney Island. Through collaboration and community involvement, Delva’s vision is clear. She is determined to expand the organization and touch as many lives as possible. As a single mother of three daughters, Delva knows the importance of perseverance and community support. Additionally, outside of her work, she enjoys reading, traveling, and listening to music. These hobbies provide her with the balance and energy she needs to continue her mission.
From Surviving to Thriving
The tagline for Circle of Champions is “From Surviving to Thriving,” which perfectly sums up the founder’s vision. The aim is to ensure that survivors and caregivers are not only acknowledged but empowered. The bold vision for the future of Circle of Champions is inspiring. With the passion of the Circle of Champions team and a community of champions to serve, there’s no doubt they will continue making a difference, one survivor at a time.
For Delva, everyone is a champion. She states, “You don’t have to be rich; all you have to do is care.” Ultimately, Circle of Champions embodies that belief, providing a space where compassion leads to empowerment, and everyone is encouraged to rise to their full potential. If you would like to find out more, visit their website, Circle of Champions Celebrating Survivors.
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