Hello! I’m Mary, and I’m writing this Go Fund Me to share with you the extraordinary journey that has reshaped my existence, my relationship with others, and my connection to society as a whole. My story has been inspired by two extraordinary individuals whose influence has been nothing short of life altering. Joshua and Cat are their names. For many, they have been catalysts for transformation. For me, they have been that and SO much more! As I give you a glimpse into their world and its impact, I am also inviting you to be part of something monumental, something that has the power to revolutionize how we understand ourselves and our connections.

How do I know? When I met them, I suffered from crippling anxiety, constant internal conflict which was a reflection of external judgment, an inability to love and care for myself, and an on-going search for what was missing. I searched on-line to find something, some kind of help for the knots I was tied in and the first link I came across belonged to Joshua. With his ability and openness to discuss any fear I had, I agreed to work with him, and through him, I ultimately found my way to Cat. I have worked with them both for a few years now in varying capacities as I healed, I grew, and I wanted to help in bringing the same to others.

What is different now? I am a living testament to their work. I’ve walked the path they have shown me, and learned to carve a path for myself. I’ve embraced their guidance and reaped the rewards. Within a couple of weeks of starting the work I couldn’t have predicted the healing that I experienced through their encouraging me and enabling me to take responsibility for my own healing within their framework of shared insights, consistent guidance and constant support. Today, I’m proud to share that the once-crippling anxiety is now a silent occasional recurrence which I now have the tools to overcome. The persistent internal conflict has been replaced by a newfound inner strength. Working with them has kindled a relationship with myself, one that shows me that I can and do love myself, and I have the desire and capability to never go back. I had been spending so much time looking for validation in the external world, and this work showed me that nothing was missing. I didn’t have anything to find but myself.

Joshua and Cat continue to dedicate their lives to creating intensive educational experiences and events, both in small private venues and in larger publicly accessible settings, that are designed to challenge, provoke, and inspire individuals seeking more depth and meaning, more connection in their lives. Cat and Joshua’s expansive work has provided safe space for folks to explore themselves to the core, confront inner resistance and emerge with a heightened sense of self. For those they work with, it’s not just about coping or surviving but becoming vulnerable enough to discover and embrace genuine authenticity. Part of what makes their work so compelling to me is watching them openly move though their personal experiences, both individually and together. I have experienced them as leaders who are willing to fight through any resistance and challenge, no matter the investment in time and energy required. It is inspirational to watch them practice what they preach.

Imagine a space where we are able to exist authentically, where each person is celebrated for their unique essence and expression, and where connections are shaped with a depth that goes beyond surface-level interactions. Their vision is to create a space, a physical space, that can be dedicated to the work they do. They want to create a sanctuary for healing for the community, where they can assist individuals from all walks of life who are looking to embrace change and the challenging work that comes with finding personal freedom.

Joshua and Cat have located a permanent space, right in the neighborhood where Joshua spent his formative years. They need assistance in making their vision a reality. Your donation will directly support this effort, The funds will allow them to acquire the space and furnish it in a way that supports safety, healing, personal development and growth. The undertaking is costly, but this space will serve as a home away from home for those who are dedicated to their own journey. They have been this safe space for hundreds of people, simply by virtue of who they are. And now they have the chance to create a haven that will match the love and care they show everyone they work with. The funds will also support programming, materials and staff, in addition to what is needed to maintain a space like this on a daily basis.

Every contribution, no matter the size, takes them one step closer. There are a number of ways in which people can show their support. Donating directly, sharing this post with a friend, and choosing something from the Amazon wish list are all wonderful ways to make this dream, this vision of theirs, a reality. Regardless of how you choose to support them, thank you for taking the time to read about my life changing experiences and Joshua and Cat's incredible vision of the future.

Donate today and let’s celebrate being a part of something amazing together! As their website is currently undergoing updates, sign up for the newsletter or send an email by visiting, https://ssdce.org to learn more about their stories and get insight to new offerings.

Want to come meet Joshua, Cat and their facilitators to get an opportunity to learn first hand about what we do and how you can help out and / or get involved? You are cordially invited to The Sanctuary of East Harlem's open house on September 15th from 7pm-10pm. Uncover all the other offerings you'll be able to find at the Sanctuary by visiting their Linktree .