Empowerment - featured

Respect, Honor & Congratulations to Dr. Strong

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Greta R. Strong, Ed.D., MPA., MSc., HS-BCP, Vitiligo Bond’s Vice President and founding member.  Without her Vitiligo Bond would not be in existence….

And a man said, Speak to us of self-knowledge.

And he answered, saying:

Your hearts know in silence the secrets of the days and the nights.

But your ears thirst for the sound of your heart’s knowledge.

You would know in words

that which you have always known in thought.

You would touch with your fingers

The naked body of your dreams.

 And it is well you should.

The hidden well-spring of your soul

must need rise and run murmuring to the sea;

And the treasure of your infinite depths

Would be revealed to your eyes.

But let there be no scales to weigh your unknown treasure;

And seek not the depths of your knowledge with staff or sounding line.

For self is a sea, boundless and measureless.

Say not, “I have found the truth,”

but rather, “I have found a truth.”

Say not, “I have found the path of the soul.”

Say rather, “I have met the soul walking upon my path…

—Excerpt from The Prophet, Khalil Gibran

Natasha Pierre McCarthy is the visionary founder of the National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation (Vitiligo Bond), a nonprofit devoted to supporting and empowering individuals living with vitiligo. Drawing inspiration from her experiences as a Christian business professor and the guidance of her pastor, Natasha turned a God-inspired vision into reality—creating a platform that educates, uplifts, and connects those affected by vitiligo. Vitiligo Bond promotes awareness through innovative educational initiatives, including Vitiligo 101 sessions at Emory University with Dr. Holla, community events, social media campaigns, partnerships with support groups, and collaborations with public figures and state leaders. By fostering a strong, supportive community, Vitiligo Bond ensures that no one with vitiligo feels alone. Through tireless advocacy, Vitiligo Bond and its dedicated volunteers have been instrumental in securing Governor Proclamations in multiple states, officially recognizing Vitiligo Awareness in Georgia, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and West Virginia... The organization has also supported the launch of vitiligo focused support groups and nonprofits both nationally and internationally. Well-known brands have collaborated with Vitiligo Bond, featuring models from the organization to destigmatize vitiligo and promote inclusivity. Natasha’s work has earned recognition from Congressman Hank Johnson, whose support helped bring national attention to vitiligo awareness, including acknowledgment by President Barack Obama administration during Vitiligo Awareness Month in June. Current efforts also include legislative initiatives (HRES 792) to address bullying and advocate for youth affected by vitiligo. Believing that everyone is created with a purpose and deserves a full, vibrant life, Natasha reminds us, “We all have the ability to shine.” Vitiligo Bond remains steadfast in its mission to raise awareness, promote self-acceptance, support those facing bullying, destigmatize vitiligo, and advance research toward understanding and ultimately curing vitiligo.