I hope this message finds you well...

February 25, 2024
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I am a survivor of domestic violence. It took me a long time to understand the full dynamic of mental, emotional and psychological abuse I endured before the physical abuse. 

When I was assaulted and took a stand for myself and my unborn child, I lost everything. The person I thought I knew, a home I thought I would grow in with my family, and a huge part of myself. I didn't understand...no one did.

I started the YEG Built For Life Foundation to provide women and children experiencing domestic violence with resources, support recommendations and hope for you to know YOU are built for a better life.

I have been incredibly blessed to connect with many organizations that have offered me supports and resources as well as making genuine connections and developing relationships with people who understand and have had similar experiences. Support from the right people goes a long way!

We are here to help and looking forward to connecting with you. Through Advocating and Empowering other women who have experienced domestic violence, we can find our voice and make it louder together <3

 2022 COVERT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS PETITION

​https://www.change.org/p/petition-for-domestic-violence-deliberation-in-family-court-the-broken-legal-system?original_footer_petition_id=31579942&algorithm=promoted&source_location=petition_footer&grid_position=10&pt=AVBldGl0aW9uABEv9gEAAAAAYlRAMdZDV5JlNTcxMmU0NQ%3D%3D

 January/February 2024 STRONG FITNESS MAGAZINE 

2024 MISS QUEEN ALBERTA PAGEANT

2024 SOROPTIMIST CLUB OF EDMONTON AWARD

I received an award from Soroptimist International Club of Edmonton as a recipient of their Live Your Dream Award. Over half of the Live Your Dream Awards recipients are survivors of domestic violence, trafficking or sexual assault. Nearly all of the women and families served have overcome enormous obstacles.

​I’m incredibly thankful to have been selected as one of the top 8 out of 35 applicants. My hope is to inspire victims and survivors of domestic violence that there is hope after leaving an abusive relationship.

2024 Award Nominations

1. 2024 Women of Empowerment Award for Leadership. The Women Empowerment Awards is a Canadian awards initiative designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women in business, social and community support, mentorship, leadership and diversity.

2. 2024 Women of Inspiration Award. Nominated by SupportHER, who believes an extraordinary woman deserving recognition as a Women of Inspiration who leads, inspires and motivates.

Jessica Martel Memorial Foundation 5K Run 2024

In memory of Jessica Martel, a women who lost her life to her abuser. RIP
Your Legacy lives on through survivors fighting to make a change in the systems to protect women and children experiencing domestic violence, domestic abuse and/or coercive control.

2024 GLOBAL RECOGNITION AWARD

YEG Built For Life Foundation, founded by Sarah Courchesne, has been recognized with a 2024 Global Recognition Award for its remarkable commitment to supporting women and children experiencing domestic violence. The foundation's dedication to guiding victims to safety and aiding their healing journey through group support and resource packages sets it apart from others in the industry. This award acknowledges the foundation's steadfast commitment to its mission and vision, as well as the impact it has made on the community it serves.

The YEG Built For Life Foundation stands out for its unique approach to empowerment, driven by the personal experiences of its founder, Sarah Courchesne. As a survivor of domestic violence herself, Courchesne has transformed her journey of healing into a powerful testimony that resonates with other victims. This personal connection allows her to understand the emotions, fears, and challenges faced by those in similar situations, fostering a deep sense of trust and empathy with the women and children the foundation supports.
By leveraging her own experiences, Courchesne has created a support system that addresses the immediate needs of those escaping abusive relationships and empowers them to rebuild their self-worth and confidence. The foundation's programs are designed to provide comprehensive support, including information on subsidized legal services and community resources, ensuring that victims have the tools to start a new chapter. This holistic approach is a testament to the foundation's dedication to making a lasting impact on the lives of those it serves.

Driving Change Through Compassion
The foundation's core values of honesty, integrity, compassion, empathy, trust, and transparency are at the heart of its operations. These values guide every aspect of its work, from how it interacts with clients to the resources it provides. The foundation's commitment to these principles has earned it a reputation as a trusted and reliable source of support for victims of domestic violence.
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YEG Built For Life's approach is deeply rooted in compassion and a genuine desire to help others. This is evident in how it tailors its programs to meet the unique needs of each individual it serves. By offering personalized support and understanding, the foundation helps victims navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of leaving an abusive relationship and rebuilding their lives. This compassionate approach is a critical factor in the foundation's success and the reason why it has been recognized with a 2024 Global Recognition Award.

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VOICES AGAINST VIOLENCE RALLY - EDMONTON LEGISLATIVE GROUNDS
​OCTOBER 21, 2024

​Facebook: YEG BUILT FOR LIFE FOUNDATION
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Huge shoutout to Alexandra Park Dental in Leduc for supporting YEG BUILT FOR LIFE FOUNDATION with 100 toothbrushes, toothpaste and teddies for the kids! I am incredibly thankful for the generosity of business such Alexandra Park Dental with Dr. Lee and his incredible team!