Meet the Founders

Mrs. Janice G. Pettigrew &  Minister Oscar Pettigrew, Jr.

As a former victim of domestic violence Janice understands all too well the toll domestic violence, abuse and sexual assault takes on a woman's self-esteem. Using lessons learned in her own journey to healing she encourages others to begin the healing process. With the guidance and support of her husband and co-founder Minister Oscar Pettigrew, Jr. women are breaking the shackles that have prevented them from reaching their goals.

Janice is a powerful inspirational and motivational speaker & facilitator demonstrating to women the endless possibilities that still await them. Armed with love, patience, tears and smiles Janice and her staff of professionals and volunteers gently guides them through their journey of self-evaluation on the road to rediscovering their hopes and dreams. Says Mrs. Pettigrew, "it is our desire that women learn not to be defined by the events of the past but use them as a springboard to move forward to a brighter tomorrow."

An ordained minister for more than 27 years, Minister Pettigrew serves on the advisory board of the organization and also provides his services for after care to the women who go through the Fresh Start program. Minister Pettigrew has a unique prospective when it comes to domestic violence since he grew up the only male child with seven sisters. His first hand knowledge of the trauma that domestic violence can make on a woman's life places him in a rare category, a man who really cares. "Having come from a broken home due to domestic violence, the exposure taught me to be sensitive to this particular epidemic and its affects on women, children and the community".

Minister Pettigrew can be reached at 404-543-1045 or oscar@freshstartforwomen.org.