Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Caldwell.
Hi Kimberly, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey is one of resilience and purpose, beginning as a young mother at 15, which taught me early on to face challenges with strength and determination. Over the years, I developed a deep empathy for those struggling to find their voice and purpose, which naturally led me into social work and mental health services. I became a licensed social worker and have now spent over 20 years in the field of social services, dedicated to making a meaningful impact in lives and communities.
Five years ago, I felt a strong calling to advocate for formerly incarcerated individuals and those facing similar adversities. With a passion for reentry work and a heart for helping people rebuild their lives, I founded my nonprofit, Jewel’s Comfort Keeper Inc. Now, as the CEO, I lead efforts to empower individuals to reintegrate successfully, offering everything from mental health support to job readiness training.
Having a brother who has been incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice System for 22 and half years, has fueled my passion for this work on a deeply personal level. His experience opened my eyes to the challenges that individuals face both inside and after release, and it drove me to become an advocate and a source of support for those on a similar path. This personal connection inspired me to create programs and initiatives that help others like my brother reintegrate with dignity, resilience, and the resources they need to succeed.
Along the way, my nonprofit has expanded its scope to include proactive initiatives like Youth Gun Violence Prevention and Awareness, which addresses youth gun violence and supports youth and men dealing with unresolved trauma. Recently, I’ve partnered with United Way on this initiative, which focuses on gun violence prevention and mental health education. My approach has gained recognition from platforms like Voyage Dallas Magazine (2019) and Channel 4 News (Here and Now) with Shaun Rabb. As well as serving as a board member for several prestigious organizations, However the real reward is seeing people find hope, healing, and resilience. Every step of this journey has deepened my commitment to empowering others, believing firmly that “What a man does in a moment, does not define his life, it defines the moment.”-K.Caldwell
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has been anything but smooth. Building a nonprofit from the ground up while balancing my role as a single mother of three has tested me in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. I know what it feels like to face life’s challenges head on; becoming a mother at 15 taught me to find strength in adversity, but the journey has required resilience at every step.
One of the most significant challenges has been securing consistent funding and resources for our programs, especially those focused on reentry and trauma support. I’ve also faced resistance in breaking down the stigma around formerly incarcerated individuals and advocating for them in the community. Additionally, helping men and youth struggling with unresolved trauma and gun violence has exposed me to complex, often painful realities.
Yet these struggles are part of what makes the journey worthwhile. Every hurdle has pushed me to grow, learn, and innovate. These experiences allow me to connect with the people we serve, understanding firsthand what it means to persevere despite the odds.
We’ve been impressed with Jewel’s Comfort Keeper Inc., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Jewel’s Comfort Keeper, is dedicated to helping formerly incarcerated individuals and those impacted by trauma rebuild their lives with dignity, hope, and purpose. Our mission is to support their reintegration into society by providing critical resources and guidance, from mental health support to job readiness and life skills training. One of our primary services is assisting individuals in obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a crucial step toward stable employment and self-sufficiency.
We’re also focused on youth gun violence prevention and supporting men facing unresolved trauma through tailored programs that build resilience and foster a sense of purpose. Recently, we launched a proactive initiative Youth Gun Violence Prevention and Awareness, which addresses youth gun violence and supports youth. This is in partnership with United Way to raise awareness about gun violence, provide mental health resources, and conflict resolution education for junior high and high school aged youth and their families.
What sets us apart is our Holistic approach, we see each individual as more than their past or their struggles. My own life experiences, including having a loved one in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, has helped me to understand and address the unique needs of the individuals we serve.
Brand wise, I’m most proud of the impact we’ve made in our community addressing recidivism and bringing restoration to the whole family and the recognition we’ve received from our community and media, including Voyage Dallas Magazine (2019) and FOX 4 News (Here and Now) with Shaun Rabb.
For our readers, I want them to know that Jewel’s Comfort Keeper is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a place where people find renewed hope, the courage to heal, and the resources they need to succeed. Whether it’s a returning citizen ready to reclaim his life or a young person looking to make positive life choices, we’re here to walk alongside them on their journey.
What makes you happy?
What truly makes me happy is seeing the people we serve at Jewel’s Comfort Keeper regain hope and confidence in their future. Witnessing someone overcome a significant life obstacle, whether it’s gaining employment, reconnecting with family, or simply believing in themselves again is incredibly rewarding. Each success story reflects a larger impact on their lives, their families, and their communities. Knowing that Jewel’s Comfort Keeper plays a role in these transformations fills me with a profound sense of purpose.
I’m also deeply fulfilled by partnerships and the support of community members who resonate with our mission. When people from different walks of life come together to make a positive difference, I see how collective compassion and dedication can change lives. Every time a partner reaches out to contribute, or I see a team of volunteers investing their time, it reinforces my belief in the good we can accomplish when we come together.
On a personal level, being there for my children and seeing them grow into kind and resilient individuals brings me joy. As a single mother of three, I’ve faced my share of challenges, but those moments when I see them thriving and pursuing their dreams fills my heart with joy. My faith and my family keeps me grounded, reminding me of why I embarked on this path in the first place.
Ultimately, my happiness stems from living a life driven by my GOD given purpose. Helping others find hope, fostering a community of compassion, and being present for my family, these are the sources of my joy and fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jewelscomfortkeeper.us
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jewelscomfortkeeper/profilecard/?igsh=dXJpOThsZDRiY2Fi
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JCK1915?mibextid=LQQJ4d
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Image Credits
TruMusyc Productions LLC.
