women to watch
“ DON ’ T CAST YOUR PEARLS BEFORE SWINE . UNFORTUNATELY , NOT EVERYONE IS FOR YOU .”
Photography by Aubrie Moates .
Kristin Byrd recently hit her one-year work anniversary . She ’ s been with Child Protect for 10 years but in her current position as Executive Director since March 2022 . She ’ s responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Montgomery nonprofit that supports children who are victims of abuse . The kids served through Child Protect ’ s Children ’ s Advocacy Center are in dire need of its nonthreatening environment and its multidisciplinary team that combine to minimize trauma during the justice and restoration process . Leading these efforts can be rewarding but also emotionally exhausting . It ’ s why Byrd leans on her personal support system time and time again and why she advises others to find their own tribe . “ I hate to sound cliché , but my faith , family and friends keep me grounded ,” she said . “ I cannot do life alone . No one can . We need each other .”
Personal Best : I ’ m proud of getting my counseling license . It was a long process for me , and I was SO glad when I finished my hours and received approval from the licensure board .
Fulfilled : This job can be incredibly draining at times for various reasons . What keeps me going is when a child completes counseling and has healed , and their trauma symptoms have improved because they have had the courage to participate in this process . When I think I am not making an impact , I ’ ll get a note or speak to a former client who will encourage me to keep going because I made some small impact on their life .
Helping Hand : I volunteer with Girl Scouts by serving on a committee that helps them pursue their Gold Awards .
LOVE LIST
BYRD ’ S ALL-TIME FAVES
SHOP STOPS : BeYOUtiful Boutique and Sephora
FUELING STATION : Hilltop Public House
BEST BITES : Goat Haus Biergarten , Capitol Oyster Bar and El Rey Burrito Lounge
POSITIVE PHILOSOPHY : Keep it moving . Don ’ t let life bog you down . We only have so much time on this earth , so living and enjoying life should be our goal .
Firm Foundation : My parents and family have always been supportive in my endeavors . I know at one time they probably thought I would be a professional student for the rest of my life , but at least I have two master ’ s degrees to show for it . I have a strong circle of friends that support me . Professionally and most recently , MY PREDECESSOR , JANNAH BAILEY , WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING ME WITH MY ACCOMPLISHMENTS WHILE AT CHILD PROTECT . She has given me continuous support and mentorship during my time here .
Future-Focused : This job has been overwhelming in a way I did not expect . I ’ M LOOKING FORWARD TO TAKING CHILD PROTECT TO NEW HEIGHTS IN THE NEXT THREE TO FIVE YEARS . I ’ ll plan for the next five years when I get a moment to come up for air . Personally , I see myself enjoying travel and spending more time with my fiancé turned husband .
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