Tuesday, May 12, 2015

IMGF Proudly Announces Publication of "Big Momma" Slated for Summer 2015




About the Book...

Big Momma Didn't Tell Me This Would Happen is a cautionary tale about life, love and relationships.
Big Momma, being the strong Matriarch of the family, until it came to her husband. Then everything he says goes; whether she agreed with it or not.
 
A legacy that was passed down to her daughters and granddaughters, perpetuating a cycle of "blind obedience," drama, pain, dysfunction, and even death.
This book is a time capsule that spans more than five decades. It chronicles the story of Ella Mae King (Big Momma) and the trials and tribulations of the women in one southern family who never understood what love really was. What to expect in relationships, or how to make healthy relationship choices.
A story about a family legacy of giving in to your man no matter the consequences, that is handed down to the young women, generation after generation-- like fine china and cherished heirlooms.
 
It's a legacy of control... of abuse and death, resulting from a lack of knowledge about relationship violence and how it affects the entire family, not just the victim.
 
Though the story is lived out by one family of beautiful African-American women, it is a story line that is echoed across the country by women of all races and socio-economic backgrounds where domestic violence and toxic relationships serve as a common theme. 
Big Momma Didn't Tell Me ThisWould Happen will make you laugh, sometimes it will make you cry.
 
In the end, it is my hope that ultimately it will make you think-- about your choices, about love, and about relationship safety. Because "what you DON'T know CAN hurt you!"
 
About the Distribution and Availability...
 
This 3rd book, authored by Darlene Greene, (the 1st fictional work), will be available as a limited edition in August. You can order it online through the website.
Look for the National distribution in October, for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 
 
 



Sunday, May 3, 2015

Happy Mother's Day to All...




Mothers. Where would any of us be without them?
They give us roots and wings. They were our first teachers.
Most believed in us before we believed in ourselves.
They dried tears and calmed fears.

They are our silent "cheerleaders."
They lift us up in prayer.

Which is why IMGF is proud to salute all mothers, grandmothers and stepmothers for the crucial role they play in the lives of others (officially) on May 10th. But, realistically all year long!

In all you do, take time out for you!

Wishing you a
Happy Mother's Day filled with abundant blessings and fond memories!

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

The Purple Pinkie Project--Bringing Awareness to Teen Dating Violence

Consider the following statistics.
According to loveisrespect.org:
  • Approximately 1.5 million high school students nationwide encounter physical abuse from a dating partner in a single year.
  • 72% of 8th and 9th graders are reportedly "dating."
  • 70% of college students have been sexually coerced.
  • Violent behavior typically rears its ugly head between the ages of 12 and 18.
These statistics underscore the importance of educating and empowering our youth, as it relates to dating, positive self-esteem and awareness, anger management, and healthy relationship boundaries and behaviors.

The "Purple Pinkie" Project was established to address this growing need.
Created by the Whitney Family in 2012, to honor and remember Alexandra Kogut, a college freshman who was reportedly murdered by her boyfriend, and whose favorite color was purple.

Why does the "pinkie finger" have significance?
It is said to symbolize strength and promise.
In a show of solidarity and support, women and men all over, have painted their pinkies purple and posted their photos on Facebook and other social media circles.

With the Purple Pinkie Charitable Foundation's advocacy, efforts and involvement, perhaps we can come one step closer to creating a kinder, gentler generation for the future.

To learn more, or to make a contribution, visit:
http://www.purplepinkie.org/




Monday, February 2, 2015

Black History Month Tribute to the Strength and Beauty of Black Women



Sometimes we forget who we are, where we come from.
Though history books may minimize our collective contributions, and we are recognized during the shortest month of the year, trust me-- there is nothing "small" about people of color.

From humble beginnings, we have made a huge impact on all aspects of society: from arts and entertainment, to fashion, to politics, to sports, to the business arena. We are an undeniable force!
Strong. Innovative. Proud. Determined.

Particularly Black Women.


Which is why it gives the Ina Mae Greene Foundation tremendous pleasure to honor Black History Month.
A celebration of past achievements and future greatness.

We invite you to join us.




LIKE WINE WE RARE (FOR SOUL SISTERS)
 
 
Defiant hair
Undeniable flair
"Attitude" to spare,
Like wine
We rare
 
Full hips
More-than-our-share lips,
Skin that's been
Sun Kissed,
 
Like wine,
We rare
 
Sassy and bold
Breaking the mold,
Our greatness untold,
 
Like wine,
We rare
 
 
(C) 2006 J.B. Banks
Image Credit: Henry L. Jones

Friday, January 2, 2015

NOMORE.ORG JOINS THE FIGHT AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

No more.org is a public awareness campaign and social movement purposed to end domestic violence and sexual assault, through various programs, public service initiatives, and resources. Its roots date back to 2009.

The group, along with local and national organizations, seeks to remove the stigma associated with Domestic Violence and add some much needed conversations surrounding a social issue that has been shrouded in secrecy for far too long.

The campaign has even partnered with celebrities and NFL athletes to assist their cause, and to give greater visibility and a stronger platform to reach more people.


NOMORE.ORG SHARES THE FOLLOWING STATISTICS AND STUDIES:


  • 12.7 million people are raped, physically abused or stalked by partners in a 12-month period.
  • Abusive unions can affect long-term health. Survivors of intimate partner violence are 70% more likely to experience heart disease.
  • According to an Avon Study, 60% of Americans know a victim of either domestic or sexual violence, or both.
  • 3 out of 4 parents have not talked about the issue of Domestic Violence with their children.
To learn more, provide a donation, or to get involved, visit NOMORE.ORG
  http://nomore.org/category/news/

...Because silence can be deadly.