About Us
A Way of Life
Our lives are complicated. Most individuals find it difficult to cope and adjust. Compounding stressors such as grief and loss, work stress, relationship stress and stress of community violence are linked to an increase in poorer self-rated physical and mental health.
Emotional wellness is the ability to successfully handle life's stressors and adapt to change and difficulties. Incorporating an intentional fitness, nutrition and self-care routine may help prevent and reduce the harms to individual emotional well-being.
The Goal
Increase awareness of factors and resources contributing to well-being and establish unique programs and partnerships centered around resiliency in the aftermath of life altering experiences.
The Vision
Develop programs that educate and empower. Provide evidence based, trauma-informed health and wellness opportunities for all to thrive!
The Plan
Introduce individuals to activities that meet their individual wellness needs, support our communities through varied programs and opportunities, and adapt our approach to ensure everyone can participate in our services.
Founder/Chief Executive Officer
Founder & CEO Rita Davis-Cannon, Ed. D Counseling Psychology
Dr. Rita Davis-Cannon is a wife, mom, crime victim subject matter expert, survivor and founder of The ATIR Community, Inc. For over 20 years Rita has advocated for victim-centered, trauma- informed services for those impacted by crime. Her work inspired her
to widen her bandwidth and create safe spaces and connections for all in need of
emotional healing, self-care strategies and practical tools to create healthier and happier lifestyles.
"I have learned more about myself in the past two years than in the past 40 years of my life. Constantly pouring into others and never filling my cup left me empty. I know I am not alone.
Many of us get caught up and forget to have our own backs. We forget that regardless of how many challenges we encounter, or how busy our lives can be, we must leave space for the maintenance of our peace and sanity.
Keeping our emotional, physical and mental health in check is the key to living healthy, happy and free. Our circumstances do not define us, but our choices will. . I chose ME!" ~ Rita
Board Chair Benjamin Bell - Athletics Supervisor
Ben currently serves as Supervisor of the Athletics Department for the City of Boca Raton, FL.
He believes that at any age, with a bit of team work dedication and grit we can all accomplish our health and wellness goals.
Ben is continuously implementing new ways for our board and community members to be their best selves, both inside and out.
Founding board members
Ms. Lauren Ballew-Burden
Board Co-Chair
“Our emotional and physical wellness drives the direction of our lives more than we like to admit. Being emotionally, mentally, and physically well positively impacts those around us. It helps us all feel great and be able to enjoy this ride called life.”
Jazzmine Bell
Information Systems Consultant/Secretary
"A lot of times people don't know how strong they are until strong is what they have to be"
Mrs. Nicole D. Ramsey
Events & Fundraising Chair
"I have learned over time the necessity of taking care of your mind, body and soul. The three go hand in hand in one's ability to achieve emotional and physical wellness. Regular exercise and movement will allow you the physical strength, and many times, the mental capacity to cope with life's uncertainties."
Wanda Edwards
Christian Studies/Finance Chair
"You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great" ~ Zig Ziglar
April Heard, AS
Health and Wellness Consultant/Program Chair
Vegan Nutrition,Integrative Homeopathy, and Integrative Iridology Specialist
Aligning the mind, body, and spirit empowers us to achieve balance, resilience, and vitality—the essence of wellness.
Ms. Melvilonn Davis
Education Specialist/Board Recruitment
"Your life only gets better when you do. Work on yourself and the rest will follow."
Joycelin Campbell, BA, CA
Victim Services Program Coordinator
Each day, I choose to explore new ways to improve my overall wellbeing and share those with like-minded individuals. It is a daily, intentional practice of caring for mind and body. “Maintaining balance is key.”
Valerie Hayes
Public Administration/Communications Chair
“When you feel like giving up, keep going and keep pushing. Results don’t happen overnight.”
