There was a recent time in my life when I felt lost. As if the thread that once tethered me to my own story had unraveled. I carried a quiet ache; a sense of otherness that made even the familiar spaces feel foreign. This was very disheartening because Penny Lane was a place that I always felt a sense of belonging and quite frankly my best self. But I was lost. And more importantly, I had lost sight of myself. I was scared: could I lead Penny Lane feeling like this?
Then, on an otherwise unremarkable day, I met a girl 16 years old, who lived in one of our group homes. I had volunteered to supervise her during a beach outing, a task I had taken not because of any special bond we shared, but because she had a habit of drawing the wrong kind of attention. Especially from men whom she would meet in the bathroom. The only way she would be able to attend the outing is if she had a one-on-one staff. So, I volunteered. That day we spent several hours one on one. Most kids are resentful when they don't have their freedom on outings, but instead she leaned into the experience. She was curious about me, and we began to share our stories. Soon, beneath our difference in age and circumstances, we began to recognize something raw and familiar in one another: our wounds. Her name was Destiny. Looking back, I believe she was exactly that, my destiny.
Destiny was the first person to tell me, "Your story matters. Don't compare your story with others. Your pain is your pain, and you can grow from your wounds. And, if you let them, your wounds can become your superpower." I had spent a lifetime diminishing my own struggles, weighing them against the suffering of others, as if pain had a hierarchy. But in her voice, there was no judgment, only truth. She, a girl who had every reason to feel powerless, understood empowerment in a way I never had. She refused to let the world define her by what had happened to her. And in that defiance, she gave me permission to reclaim myself. She reminded me that belonging is not about where you fit in, but about owning who you are. It seems fitting now that her name was Destiny because that day at the beach shifted my path in a way I could never have foreseen. In that moment, the heart centered culture started to appear before me.
If I had to name one woman who changed my life, it would be her-not a leader, not a historical icon, but a teenage girl who saw me when I couldn't see myself. During international woman's month, I honor her. I honor the unexpected teachers, the quiet revolutionaries, and the women of all ages who remind us of who we are when we forget. Be aware of who you meet and what they mean in your life-sometimes Destiny comes to us in ways least expected.
-Wendy Carpenter, Penny Lane Centers
This Women’s Day, the Commerce TAY Drop-in Center came alive with inspiration, empowerment, and community as we hosted a heartfelt celebration dedicated to uplifting women. The event featured a dynamic panel of women who spoke candidly with our youth about the importance of supporting one another and embracing the strength found in every woman’s story.
Our panelists shared personal journeys of resilience, growth, and self-discovery, offering insights into how they found their own power and encouraging others to do the same. The conversations were rich with reflections on women’s history and the continuing impact of women in shaping our world.
Guests enjoyed delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with laughter and connection. It was an unforgettable day of learning, sharing, and celebrating the incredible women who inspire us all.
We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us and made this event special. We’re already looking forward to next year’s celebration!
Check out some more photos below!
