Juanita Hall
Juanita Hall was raised by her grandparents , Will and Birdie Archie , in the community of Mount Zion located in the western part of Huntsville , Walker County . This African American community was known for their strong values for community , education and religion . The community leaders built a school for the children around 1870 . The school building was also used as the church for several years . One of the members deeded the church two acres of land , one for the church and one for the cemetery .
Hall is living proof that it takes a community . She contributes the Mt . Zion community members and her grandmother for having the greatest impact on her life . Her grandmother ’ s love and kindness showed her the benefits of having a benevolent heart . Hall ’ s Mt . Zion community members looked out and cared for everyone .
“ I have the spirit and heart to try and help anyone who may need
a helping hand ,” said Hall . Two additional individuals who took time to leave an imprint on
Juanita are Dr . Helen King and Dr . Helen Watkins .
Hall attended public school in Huntsville , undergrad at Sam Houston State University ( SHSU ) and masters in education from Prairie View A and M University ( PVAMU ). When Hall left home , she traveled with spiritual guidance through giving , helping , and sharing . Sharing by doing good deeds of acts and always remembering that God loves us all .
This “ Difference Maker ,” life ’ s philosophy is to smile when you see someone smile . “ A smile can help someone who might be going through a rough day and always say something positive to everyone you talk to on a given day ,” said Hall .
Juanita Hall is a counselor with the Huntsville Independent School District ( HISD ) McKinney-Vento Homeless Program Home / School District Liaison . This counselor ’ s work day is usually 12 hours long , because the needs and follow-up never stops . Hall is motivated by her spiritual strength and the belief “ with God ’ s grace all things are possible .” She treats her clients with love , dignity and without judgement . The continuous need for resources , rent , electric , and water assistance , never stops . “ Huntsville is in desperate need of more resources , that address these critical area ,” said Hall .
When this “ Difference Maker ,” relaxes , she shops , reads and enjoys time with her wonderful husband Jack , their adult children and grandchildren . The family lives on a farm and consider it their paradise in Huntsville .
- Written by Dee Howard Mullins
HUNTSVILLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2022 | 11