Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Jayco McCowan.
Hi Dr. McCowan, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Thank you for the opportunity. Currently, I proudly serve as the Nonprofit Founder and Executive Director for, And I Stand. I have always had a passion to advocate for victims/survivors to obtain quality resources and programs centered around sexual assault and rape. My advocacy expanded to domestic violence when I started discovering that people close to me experienced or were currently in abusive relationships. In some cases, the knowledge and access for resources to help victims I knew personally leave their abusive relationships were limited. I explored ways to bridge the gap through my advocacy for sexual assault, rape, and domestic violence; so, I decided to start a nonprofit. In early 2020, my nonprofit dream was postponed when I lost my sister-in-love to a drunk driver. After taking time to process things mentally, to continue her legacy, I decided to move forward with the development of a nonprofit to include alcohol/substance abuse awareness through the “Taylor Project”.
When you think about adversities centered around critical areas to include, sexual assault/rape, domestic violence, and alcohol/substance abuse, one’s mental wellbeing is impacted. This is why mental health awareness is key especially in communities of color. Facing those unwanted traumatic circumstances, ending generational curses, and/or taking steps to start the journey of healing is not easy. While researching the critical areas previously mentioned, I confirmed the limitations in resources and programs relatable to minorities. To help bridge the gap in obtaining resources to aid in combating sexual assault/rape, domestic violence, alcohol/substance abuse, and mental health stigma, I created, And I Stand.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
If the road were easy, everyone would have a nonprofit! It takes a lot of passion and dedication to run a nonprofit. When you work in this field, its about the people and being a voice to those who may not have one. I would say the biggest challenge is funding to keep things operating so we can continue to provide services to the community. I have been grateful to work with an amazing board of directors that support and believe in the mission and vision of And I Stand. In addition, the operational leaders have also been a driving force in our sustainability. The Board of Directors and operational leaders believe that as a nonprofit, we have a duty to change lives through empowerment and inspiration to communities that need support. With their guidance and contributions, And I Stand continues to thrive as a new nonprofit. It takes a village; major love to the And I Stand Board and Leaders to include: Dr. Ebony Beaudoin, Dr. Tamikia Greene, Dr. Tasha Dominguez, Dr. Ebony Baylor, Mrs. Karina Anderson, Mr. Kevin Trent, Mrs. Kuntumie Holston, Mrs. Jessica Smith, and Mrs. Porcha Beasley.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Outside of being a Nonprofit leader, I am an author, business consultant, project portfolio management professional, and of course, a family woman! I have over 15+ years of professional experience from diverse industries. In addition, I hold a doctorate in business administration, I am a certified HR scholar, and a lean six sigma black belt professional.
I was recognized as the 2020 Houston Area Zeta Phi Beta Centennial Scholarship Recipient, acknowledged as a 2019 HYPE Impact Award Business Leader Nominee, selected as a 2018 -2019 member of the FBISD Board of Trustee Academy Cohort, and was recognized by executive leaders as a 2017 University of Texas Medical Branch Emerging Leader. In addition, I lead and is a member of several service/professional organizations to include the NAACP, Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals, SHRM, Gathering Spot, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated to name a few.
My current focus is to serve my purpose in life by truly making a positive impact and driving effective social, educational, and economic change in the community. I want to leave a legacy that the next generation can continue and grow.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I would be remiss, if I did not highlight some encouragement around mental health. Many people go through things and mask it with the phrase “I’m good”, but remember, it is ok, not to be OK! Please know that there are many resources available to help you…when you are ready. I co-authored a book called “Unmasking the Truth Behind I’m Good” with three amazing authors (iiiYansaja T. Muse, Ennun Walker, and Kevin Trent) that I welcome everyone to read. Many people who have read the book stated that it really helped them get through tough times in knowing they were not alone. The book highlights four real stories of individuals who deal with challenges and seek to start their journey of healing despite adversity. Proceeds from the book, go to And I Stand Nonprofit
See book information: https://www.amazon.com/Unmasking-Truth-Behind-Im-Good-ebook/dp/B08RN6W9YV/
You got this! Thank you.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@andistand.org | andistand2020@gmail.com
- Website: www.andistand.org
- Instagram: @andistandorg
- Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/AndIStandOrg - Other: https://sociatap.com/
DrJaycoMcCowan/
Image Credits:
The DUI Podcast
UTMB In the News
