Community members answer the question ‘What makes you feel confident?’

Independent thinker, cat lover, poet and aspiring motivational speaker are all words Maureen Mitchell would use to describe herself. And, as a writer, words are everything to Maureen. A Mustard Seed Mountain vendor and contributor, Maureen is passionate about sharing her story and uplifting those who struggle with mental illness.  

Maureen’s journey hasn’t been an easy one. She began experiencing severe symptoms of Bipolar Disorder when she reached college, and spent time in and out of psychiatric institutions. It took her several years to truly accept her diagnosis, Maureen said. For her, writing has become a way to manage her illness and learn to love herself.

I was visiting The Mother Jones Center for Resilient Community when a conversation came up about how all people are people, deserving dignity and respect. This led to the mention of Walter Reuther, some of the incredible things that he did in his lifetime, and that he grew up right here in Wheeling, West Virginia. I did not know much about him, but I love to learn, especially about history.  I asked if I could write a piece about this Walter Reuther for Mustard Seed Mountain. This endeavor became so fascinating that it has turned into a multi-part series.

As a registered nurse at a behavioral health center, Sarah Williams has devoted her adult life to treating people struggling with addiction. She has a fierce drive to help others heal.

But just over a decade ago, Sarah sat squarely on the opposite side of the provider-patient relationship.

The YWCA receives at least three calls a week regarding domestic abuse in the Wheeling area and beyond. But for many survivors, escaping the abuse is only the first barrier.