FAQ

Together, we are bridge builders, barrier breakers, and champions for change. Join us in making a lasting impact.

Grant Opportunities

Our grants are invitation-only and extended to organizations that align with our strategic priorities. While we do not accept unsolicited applications, organizations may submit an information inquiry for consideration.

If you believe your organization aligns with our mission and funding priorities, you may submit an information inquiry through our designated form. Please note that submitting an inquiry does not guarantee an invitation to apply or a follow-up meeting. However, we do keep your information on file for future consideration as opportunities arise. 
Contact Us

We focus on Workforce Development & Education Access, Financial Inclusion, and Community Revitalization & Well-Being. We support organizations that demonstrate measurable impact, scalability, and alignment with these priorities.
While we review all submitted inquiries, we only reach out to organizations that align with our current funding priorities. If there is a potential fit, a member of our team may follow up for further discussion.

Programming Partnerships

We prioritize collaborations that align with our strategic initiatives in Workforce Development & Education Access, Financial Inclusion, and Community Revitalization & Well-Being. If you are interested in partnering with us, you may submit an information inquiry outlining your program and potential synergies.
Submitting an inquiry does not guarantee a meeting or direct follow-up. If there is an initial alignment with our current focus areas, a team member may reach out for further discussion. However, all submissions are stored for future reference.

We recommend following our website and official communication channels for updates on funding and collaboration opportunities.

Distinctively Her

Distinctively Her is an organization committed to empowering women and girls through education, mentorship, and community-building. We offer programs designed to foster leadership, confidence, and personal development in a supportive environment.

We offer a variety of programs that cater to different age groups and areas of personal growth. Here’s a breakdown of what we offer:

College Bound: Mastering the College Application Process and Beyond
This program is designed for high school students and their families. It provides guidance on navigating the college application process, applying for scholarships, and preparing for college life. It is offered quarterly and serves as a valuable resource for students looking to further their education.

Mini Masterclasses Series
Our Mini Masterclasses focus on various topics relevant to women of all ages, such as career development, personal growth, financial literacy, and more. These quarterly sessions are designed to provide actionable advice and foster personal empowerment.

Distinctively Debutantes Program
This year-long program is for young girls aged 10-17. It aims to develop leadership skills, self-confidence, etiquette, and social engagement. Participants will learn valuable life skills through workshops and activities, and the program culminates in the Grand Cotillion, where the young women are celebrated and crowned.

Mommy and Me Program
The Mommy and Me program is designed for mothers and daughters aged 5-10. This program focuses on bonding through fun, interactive activities that encourage leadership, communication, and personal development. The program strengthens family dynamics and promotes healthy relationships through shared experiences.

You can support Distinctively Her by attending our events, donating, or volunteering. To donate, visit our Support Us page or text “HER” to 28950. Your contributions help us continue to provide empowering programs for women and girls.

Yes, we welcome volunteers who are passionate about empowering women and girls. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, please complete the “Shape the Future – Volunteer Application Form” located on the Support Us page.

Our registration fee covers our e-learning platform, and all program materials (binders, printed materials, custom water bottles, face masks, pens, and etc.). For our Core debutantes, the additional amount goes towards covering Cotillion costs (ball gowns, headshots, engraved bibles, and accessories).
Debutantes will complete a total of twelve (12) bi-weekly Saturday sessions starting in August and ending in March (with nine (9) weeks off between November and January)! All program dates are released when registration opens.

Completion of Standard Application: Please contact info@distinctivelyher.org to receive our official form!

  • Must be a member at your local church*
  • Pass Background Check
  • Complete an interview with Program Coordinator and Executive Director

A cotillion is a formal social dance that originated in 18th-century Europe, initially popularized by French royalty. It spread to England and later to wealthy white families in the U.S., especially in the South. In the early 20th century, affluent African American families adapted the tradition. The cotillion served as a coming-of-age event for young women, where they were introduced to society, prepared for marriage, and trained in etiquette, dance, and dress.
By the 1940s, African American organizations, including fraternities, sororities, and civic groups, adopted the cotillion, making it accessible to girls from various socioeconomic backgrounds. These programs emphasized leadership, self-confidence, and community involvement, often offering scholarships and other incentives, with elements like talent or essay competitions.
First Lady Serita Jakes later introduced a spiritual component to the debutante program, aiming to help young women build a strong foundation in their faith, which she believed would help them navigate life’s challenges.
In our program, Core Debutantes (aged 16+ or graduating seniors) are officially crowned at the Grand Cotillion. Although Junior and Junior Miss Debutantes do not officially graduate until they become Core Debutantes, they still actively participate in the cotillion and receive recognition for their involvement.

At this time, we are unable to offer sponsorship for the 2025-2026 program year.

STEAM

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. While STEM focuses on technical disciplines, STEAM adds the arts to encourage creativity, innovation, and design thinking—skills that are essential for solving today’s complex challenges.
We believe STEAM education opens doors to future success. By equipping individuals with a blend of technical and creative skills, we help prepare them for in-demand careers and empower them to become innovators, leaders, and changemakers in their communities.
Our signature events include the STEAM Academy and STEAM Expo, which feature interactive workshops, hands-on learning stations, expert panels, and exposure to careers in STEAM fields. These events are designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in students of all ages.
Our STEAM programming is open to children of various grade levels, especially those with limited access to STEAM opportunities in their schools or communities.
Follow us on social media for the latest updates. Registration typically opens several weeks before each event, and space may be limited—early registration is encouraged.
Most of our STEAM programs are offered at no cost to participants. Thanks to the support of our partners and sponsors, we are able to provide access to enriching educational experiences, supplies, and expert instruction free of charge.

TORI

No, T.O.R.I. does not provide immediate housing or operate as an inpatient facility. However, through partnerships with local organizations, skilled case managers assist returning citizens in connecting with local housing resources to achieve stable housing after incarceration.

No, T.O.R.I. does not discriminate in the provision of services based on race, ethnicity, sex, education level, ability, literacy, lifestyle, or religion. The TORI program is open to all individuals across the United States.

Yes, T.O.R.I.’s case management services and training classes are offered virtually. To enroll, please complete an on-line application at bit.ly/TORIApplication and join one of our interest meetings on Mondays at 11:30am at bit.ly/TORI_NCO. Contact our intake coordinator at 214-941-1325 ext. 104, if you have problems accessing the link.

No, any individual with a criminal background (excluding sexual offenses, with the exception of prostitution) and over the age of 18 can join the T.O.R.I. program.

The T.O.R.I. program is a 6 to 12-month rehabilitative program focused on empowering participants to achieve their maximum potential. The program culminates in a graduation ceremony.

No, T.O.R.I. does not provide onsite healthcare or in-house legal services. However, through partnerships with local agencies and organizations, skilled case managers can connect participants with the assistance they need.

To enroll, please complete an on-line application at bit.ly/TORIApplication and join one of our interest meetings on Mondays at 11:30am at bit.ly/TORI_NCO. Contact our intake coordinator at 214-941-1325 ext. 104, if you have problems accessing the link.

T.O.R.I. assists individuals returning from incarceration in six core areas: housing, healthcare, education, employment, spiritual guidance, and family reunification.

T.O.R.I. offers various volunteer opportunities, including virtual classroom assistants, pre-release jail class teachers, parole presenters, virtual class facilitators, community event representatives, graduation and event helpers, and inmate mail correspondents.
To get involved, contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 214-941-1325 ext. 104.

Yes, T.O.R.I. provides 12 months of male and female support group meetings for returning citizens, along with weekly, bi-weekly or monthly one-on-one sessions with a dedicated case manager dependent on the client’s individual needs.

T.O.R.I. serves both men and women who have a criminal background and are seeking reentry support.

T.O.R.I. accepts participants with most criminal backgrounds; however, individuals convicted of sexual offenses (excluding prostitution) are not eligible.
No, T.O.R.I. is a free program for eligible participants.

T.O.R.I. offers job readiness training, résumé building, interview coaching, and employer connections to help returning citizens secure background-friendly employment.

T.O.R.I. connects participants with community resources for financial support, education grants, and employment opportunities. In limited circumstances, T.O.R.I. provides emergency assistance to eligible clients who are actively participating in the program.

Yes, T.O.R.I. offers family reunification services to clients of the T.O.R.I. program and family counseling to clients and their families at no additional charge.

Yes, referrals can be made by family members, parole officers, or other organizations. The referred individual must complete an on-line application via bit.ly/TORIApplication and attend new client orientation via bit.ly/TORI_NCO.

Yes, T.O.R.I. partners with detention centers under the jurisdiction of the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Department and the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department to provide pre-release reentry education and post-release transitional services. All other incarcerated individuals must complete an on-line application via bit.ly/TORIApplication to enroll in the program after they are released from incarceration.

Graduates are celebrated in a formal ceremony and participate in a monthly Alumni Roundtable to continue to have access to alumni support, resources and networking opportunities.

Donations can be made online through the T.O.R.I. website TORIProgram.org (click the Donate button in the upper right-hand corner).