Advocacy in Action: Muriel's Journey

Advocacy in Action: Muriel's Journey In the world of advocacy, there are individuals who truly stand out for their passion, expertise, and dedication to making a difference. Muriel Jones Banks, a key figure in the Courage To Be business, is one such individual. With her extensive experience and personal journey, Muriel has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for those in need of support and understanding. Muriel's journey began as a parent, caring for her adult son with a co-occurring diagnosis. Through her own experiences, she recognized the need for improved presentation skills and support for individuals and organizations. This realization led her to establish Courage To Be, a Presentation Coaching and Consultation Services business located in Central Florida. At Courage To Be, Muriel and her team offer presentation coaching and consultation services to help individuals and organizations enhance their presentation skills. Whether it's a professional presentation or a personal story, Muriel understands the importance of effective communication and empowers others to embrace their true selves. By providing a platform for parents and caregivers to share their journey, Courage To Be creates a supportive community where individuals can find solace and strength. One commendable aspect of Courage To Be is its commitment to supporting families in need. Muriel and her team understand the challenges faced by families dealing with emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs. Through their consultation services, they provide guidance and support to help families navigate the complexities of the System of Care. This dedication to supporting families sets Courage To Be apart and makes it an invaluable resource for those in need. Muriel's advocacy work extends beyond the walls of Courage To Be. As the retired Executive Director of Federation of Families of Central Florida, Inc., she has been a recognized and respected leader in the field. Muriel has used her expertise to advocate on local, state, and national levels, working to influence the change in language from mental health awareness to mental health acceptance. Her efforts have been showcased in various speaking engagements and presentations at national conferences, webinars, and summits. For those looking to make a difference in their own advocacy journey, Muriel's story serves as an inspiration. Here are a few tips and thoughts to consider: 1. Embrace your true self: Advocacy starts with embracing who you are and using your unique experiences to make a difference. Your journey is valuable and can inspire others. 2. Seek support and guidance: It's important to surround yourself with a supportive community that understands and shares your passion. Connect with like-minded individuals and organizations to amplify your impact. 3. Use your voice: Advocacy is about speaking up and raising awareness. Whether it's through public speaking, writing, or social media, find your voice and use it to advocate for change. 4. Educate yourself and others: Stay informed about the issues you care about and share that knowledge with others. Education is a powerful tool in creating understanding and empathy. 5. Collaborate and network: Advocacy is often more effective when done in collaboration with others. Network with individuals and organizations who share your goals and work together to create meaningful change. Muriel's journey is a testament to the power of advocacy and the impact one person can make. Through Courage To Be, she continues to inspire and empower individuals, while providing much-needed support to families in need. Let her story be a reminder that advocacy is not just about raising awareness, but about taking action and making a difference in the lives of others. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the courage to be their true selves.