Jessica Encarnacion, Founder and Executive Director of Grace Advocacy Group

"We were created to thrive, not merely survive"

- Jessica Encarnacion

FOUNDER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR + SOCIAL JUSTICE ADVOCATE

Jessica Encarnacion

Former Domestic Violence victim turned advocate, educator, community leader, gardener, social entrepreneur, and mother.

Alumni of the Fashion Institute Of Technology with a Bachelor's Degree in Production Management: Fashion Related Industries.

For over 10 years she has passionately served various non-profits, social service agencies, community-based organizations, and churches.

In 2017, after surviving a 12-year Domestic Violence relationship she joined Rhema's New Life Center's Women's Empowerment Group which changed her life forever through Mental Health Counseling and spiritual support.

As she consistently worked on her healing journey, God sent countless women to her with similar stories of trauma and abuse. This opened the doors for her to personally support women and their children. 

In 2020, she formed the Grace Advocacy Group, as an empowerment group to provide hands-on support to Domestic Violence, abuse, and trauma survivors.

Now it has expanded to a Christian-based organization that empowers, educates, and elevates women to live their best lives holistically.

Our Executive Board

  • Tynisha Rue

    DIRECTOR OF MENTAL HEALTH + WELLNESS

    As a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, she serves clients with a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship difficulties. Tynisha takes pride in establishing her private practice - Mustard Seeds Mental Health Counseling, PC., where she focuses on fostering self-awareness, self-acceptance, and discovering purpose. 

    Tynisha's approach is rooted in the belief that mental wellness, emotional and spiritual maturity are necessary components of moving from surviving to thriving after facing traumas. She is passionate about empowering survivors of domestic violence through supporting their healing journeys, and nurturing their relationships with Jesus Christ as an integral part of that process. Tynisha believes that discovery, understanding and nurturance of one's purpose is rooted in the power of agreement with God regarding who He created them to be. This alignment helps in cultivating a kingdom mindset and realizing purpose.

    Tynisha holds a Masters of Arts degree in Mental Health Counseling from Alliance Graduate School of Counseling and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Counseling and Psychological Studies at Regent University. Her goal is to help clients understand their purpose, ultimately guiding them toward fulfillment and satisfaction in their lives.

  • Melissa Mendez

    DIRECTOR OF FUNDRAISING + ENTREPRENEURSHIP

    Melissa is an active board member of Grace Advocacy Group Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting domestic violence survivors through education, resources, and training. Since joining the organization, Melissa has contributed her skills and insights to help shape impactful programs that foster safety and self-sufficiency for survivors as well as creating financial freedom through entrepreneurship training.

    Melissa also holds notary commissions in both New York and New Jersey which she utilizes daily in her nationwide notary business. With her deep commitment to helping others, Melissa also assists survivors who are in need of notarizing their legal documents both in person or in the privacy of their home using Remote online Notarization.

    Her work is a reminder that, beyond every document, there is a story of resilience, courage, and hope for a brighter future 

  • Vianney Aguilar

    ADVISOR OF HIGH RISK CASE MANAGEMENT

    Dedicated and compassionate, Vianney is a seasoned High-Risk Domestic Violence Case Manager with over 8 years of experience in crisis intervention and victim advocacy. With a background in social work and trauma-informed care, she specializes in supporting individuals facing complex safety challenges due to domestic violence.


    In her role, Vianney collaborates with law enforcement, legal services, and community organizations to develop tailored safety plans and connect clients to essential resources, including shelter, counseling, and legal aid. Her proactive approach emphasizes empowerment, helping survivors regain control over their lives while navigating the often daunting systems of support.

    Passionate about education and prevention, Vianney conducts community outreach and training sessions to raise awareness about domestic violence and promote healthy relationships. She believes in the power of empathy and advocacy, working tirelessly to create a safer environment for all individuals affected by domestic violence.

    Outside of work, Vianney enjoys serving in her home church, leading people to Christ and finding balance through personal wellness activities, community involvement, etc.. She is committed to making a positive impact and strives to foster resilience and hope in the lives of those she serves.

  • Keysha Gaddy

    ADVISOR OF FINANCE