At Kingdom Youth and Beyond Inc. we are dedicated to equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed in life. Our mission is to empower young people through a combination of education, service opportunities, and faith-based guidance. By providing a strong foundation in both academic and life skills, we strive to foster a sense of purpose, responsibility, and resilience in the youth we serve.
We believe that every young person has the potential to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. Through our comprehensive programs, we not only support academic growth but also encourage spiritual development and community engagement. From after-school programs and mentorship initiatives to leadership development workshops, Kingdom Youth and Beyond is committed to shaping well-rounded individuals who are prepared to face life’s challenges with confidence and faith.
Shawnee Palmer is the Founder & President of Kingdom Youth and Beyond. With over a decade of experience as a mental health clinician, Shawnee has helped individuals of all ages overcome challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and life stressors.
Driven by her own childhood experiences and a deep passion for mental health advocacy, Shawnee has become a trusted voice in her community. Beyond her professional work, she is a devoted mother and philanthropist who volunteers her time to uplift local youth and senior citizens.
As a speaker and event host, Shawnee shares empowering messages rooted in biblical principles, inspiring others to find hope and purpose. Her life’s mission is to serve as a vessel for God, spreading the Gospel of Christ and positively impacting the lives of those she encounters.
Christian Tate, Treasurer
Christian holds a Master’s of Social Work degree. “I have a passion for seeing people become all they can be and partnering with them in finding their passion and purpose for life. Whatever life’s adversities you may face, I look forward to supporting you in your journey to becoming your best self. I have worked within the child welfare systems with children and families who have experienced traumas such as physical, sexual, and emotional maltreatment. I also have experience in working with people who are experiencing suicidality and self-harming behaviors. I am here to help clients set goals to overcome obstacles in life and set healthy boundaries.”
Karen Ballard-Bellamy, Board Member
Karen holds a Master’s in Business from Fayetteville State University in North Carolina. She is working toward an MA in Human Services from Webster University, St. Louis, MO. Her hope for the future is to provide a place and connect with like-minded individuals to improve the lives of those in need. Becoming educated and skilled in researching and understanding the challenges of the less fortunate will help improve individuals emotionally, physically, and spiritually and give them a purpose to celebrate their existence. Building effective advocating skills is a start to making a positive difference and serving one’s purpose in life.
Stephanie Grinston, Secretary
Stephanie Grinston is an entrepreneur, a devoted mother, and a passionate advocate for maternal mental health. With a deep commitment to empowering women and youth, she combines her expertise in entrepreneurship, community-building, and Christian business marketing to create impactful spaces for connection and support. As the founder of RIYS Women, a self-care brand that has evolved into a thriving women’s ministry, Stephanie is dedicated to nurturing the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of women. Stephanie’s role as a mother enhances her ability to connect with nonprofit organizations focused on youth entrepreneurship. Through her initiatives, she is shaping a new narrative around self-care, faith, and mental health for mothers and youth everywhere.
