Making a Transformative Difference
As a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, our goal at Empowerment Beyond Scars is twofold. We strive to help connect individuals who have experienced domestic violence and intimate partner violence with resources and services to help them on their journeys toward recovery. We also aim to educate, engage, and raise awareness, transcending scars to empower survivors.
Together, we’re rewriting the stories of resilience, one scar at a time.
“Catalyzed by my own personal experience, Empowerment Beyond Scars exists to transform pain into power. It’s about granting other survivors the opportunity to rewrite their narratives, revealing the beauty and strength that have always resided within, waiting to be reclaimed.”
Brandi Gregge, MSN, FNP-BC
Founder of Empowerment Beyond Scars
Over half of women and almost one in three men have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Domestic violence can happen to anyone, although it affects those in positions of dependence, which often includes women, children, and the elderly, at a higher rate.
Providers note a rise in inquiries from people seeking free or charitable help for aesthetic procedures related to domestic violence, according to The Safety in Beauty Campaign.
Mission
The mission of Empowerment Beyond Scars is to offer a transformative platform through aesthetic medicine, enabling survivors to overcome the visible reminders of their past abuse. This approach not only enhances their external appearance but significantly boosts their self-esteem, empowering them to pursue opportunities with renewed vigor, such as securing employment or leaving abusive relationships, thereby breaking the cycle of violence and fostering a sense of empowerment.
Vision
Empowerment Beyond Scars is a catalyst for profound change, aiming to harness the power of aesthetic medicine to provide survivors with the tools they need to see themselves as worthy, powerful, and capable of making an impact.
About Our Founder
Brandi Gregge, MSN, FNP-BC, believes each one of us has beautiful physical attributes, and aesthetic medicine should be about enhancing what we have to allow us to feel more confident.
Since 2019, Brandi has owned and operated Mint & Needle, a medical aesthetics practice in Delaware that focuses on regenerative solutions and natural aesthetic appearances. Through her work and community outreach, Brandi has supported cancer survivors, burn victims, those with severe injuries, and individuals recovering from physical trauma. In October 2023, Brandi took her passion for helping others one step further, announcing the creation of Empowerment Beyond Scars.
By starting with a focus on the physical repercussions of domestic violence and expanding to a national scale, Brandi’s goal is to ensure that Empowerment Beyond Scars becomes a beacon of hope and empowerment for survivors, regardless of their economic status or background. A survivor herself, she is committed to patient care that emphasizes the importance of a hands-on, compassionate approach to healing.
Board of Directors
Our team at Empowerment Beyond Scars is comprised of dedicated professionals who are committed to our mission of empowering survivors. Together, we work tirelessly to provide personalized care and support to every individual who walks through our doors.
Gina Smith – President
Dan Falcone – Vice President
Liam Gilroy – Treasurer
Agathe Daskalides – Secretary
Molly Nixon – Board Member
Gina Smith – President
Born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, Gina Smith has a passion for giving back to her community. She has served on the board of Premiere Charities, Inc., volunteers for the UnLocke the Light Foundation’s volleyball tournament, and has organized many charity events and fundraisers over the years.
Gina is the director of operations at Mint & Needle. Prior to her current position, she worked across several professional industries, including law, technology, healthcare, and government. She has over 20 years of experience in accounting, human resources, and operations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in management from Goldey-Beacom College.
In her free time, Gina enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Dan Falcone – Vice President
Dan is a seasoned professional in the utility industry who brings valuable experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and roles. Dan has dedicated himself to advocacy as a leader by helping individuals with personal as well as career growth.
Dan holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and a master’s in energy and environmental policy from the University of Delaware.
Dan has a rich history of giving back to the community and has supported close friends through difficult situations. Dan believes in helping others recognize their true strength and empowering them through self advocacy. Dan values the mission of Empowerment Beyond Scars and is dedicated to supporting survivors of abuse. He looks forward to offering his skills and experience supporting others as a member of the board at EBS.
Liam Gilroy – Treasurer
Liam Gilroy is an experienced business leader, investor, and consultant. As a founding member of Fortis Wealth Management, Liam has helped countless individuals and families navigate complex financial landscapes and achieve their long-term financial goals.
Liam has a history of service between his career in U.S. Army Special Forces, his current advisory practice, and as a board member of Empowerment Beyond Scars. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Military Institute and an MBA in Finance from Kenan-Flagler at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities, community-based development, and mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs.
Agathe Daskalides – Secretary
Meet Agathe Daskalides, a ray of sunshine with a heart for making a difference! With a vibrant spirit and a love for connecting with others, Agathe brings a wealth of marketing expertise to EBS. Her journey has been colored by a deep-rooted passion for social impact, particularly in the realm of healthcare nonprofit where she championed patient safety.
Agathe’s journey took a beautiful turn, leading her to become a trauma-informed Breathwork Facilitator, Energy Healer, and Retreat Leader. She’s dedicated to holistic wellbeing and empowering individuals through mindful practices.
Agathe actively contributes to her community, serving on boards such as Leadership St. Pete and the Sunscreen Film Festival, where she strategically shapes cultural landscapes and contributes to the vibrancy of her community.
Molly Nixon – Board Member
Molly Nixon has dedicated over twenty years to the field of aesthetics. With extensive experience in the science of beauty, she has worked across New England and the Mid-Atlantic. Molly recognizes that aesthetics can indeed be life-changing and confidence-boosting. When we feel good about our appearance, it positively impacts our self-esteem, interactions with others, and overall well-being.
As a survivor of domestic abuse herself, Molly understands the profound impact of scars, both seen and unseen. She believes in harnessing the artistry of medical aesthetics to help survivors heal physically and emotionally. Her passion for empowering others led her to join the board of Empowerment Beyond Scars, where she contributes her expertise and compassion to support survivors of relationship-based violence.
In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, painting, and mentoring graduates seeking employment in the aesthetic industry.
Testimonials and Partnerships
Empowerment Beyond Scars is proud to collaborate with a network of partners who share our commitment to empowering survivors of domestic violence and intimate partner violence. From nonprofit organizations and healthcare providers to community leaders and advocates, our partnerships enable us to expand our reach and provide comprehensive support to survivors on their journey toward healing.
Empowerment Beyond Scars is grateful for the support of providers, businesses, and organizations who have helped amplify our mission. Their dedication to our cause, whether through the generous contribution of funds, resources, or time, has been instrumental in advancing our efforts. Thank you for standing with us as we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of survivors.
Become a Partner or Provider
Partner with us to amplify our impact. Whether you represent a nonprofit, agency, or healthcare provider, or you’re a business looking to make a difference, we welcome partnerships that support our mission. Collaborate with us to create meaningful programs, share resources, and advocate for survivors together. Find out more by visiting our Get Involved page, or contact board president Gina Smith at gina@empowermentbeyondscars.org.