ROOT. RISE. THRIVE.

Helping Women and Girls Thrive in Relationships and Opportunity.

To empower women and girls to ROOT, RISE, and THRIVE by cultivating protective factors, supporting survivors on their healing journey, and fostering personal growth, igniting lasting change.

Our Story

Monarch 61 Project was established in 2020 with a mission to support women and girls affected by domestic violence, sexual violence, and generational trauma. Before its founding, extensive research and outreach efforts were conducted to understand the challenges these women and girls face and the gaps in available support. Recognizing a deep need for a space dedicated to the long-term and diverse needs of healing, empowerment, and community, Monarch 61 Project was developed as a place where women could reconnect with their value and worth and move forward in spite of adversity.

With strong community backing, Monarch 61 Project officially opened its doors in September 2021 and received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status the following month.

Since its inception, the organization has remained committed to providing trauma-informed care, wellness programs, and creative outlets that foster healing and resilience. Monarch 61 Project continues to evolve in response to the needs of the women it serves, ensuring that support, advocacy, and connection remain at the heart of its work.

Today, Monarch 61 Project’s defining mission is to empower women and girls to ROOT, RISE, and THRIVE by cultivating protective factors, supporting survivors on their healing journey, and fostering personal growth – igniting lasting change.

Nicole Walton

Founder + Executive Director

Nicole’s heart is for women who feel the full weight of their trauma. Through her work and research, she recognizes that so many women are buried in shame and guilt and have lost connection with their true value and worth. Nicole spent over 10 years traveling and learning about organizations that helped women in the areas of trafficking, domestic violence, and sexual assault before the birth of Monarch 61. Nicole has both a Business Degree and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. She also contracts with our local Crisis Intervention Center as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. Nicole wanted to create a safe and trauma-informed space for community and creative healing, knowing the journey for a trauma survivor is long and unique. A survivor herself, Nicole understands the importance of self-love, identity, and restoration. Monarch 61 was created to rally with women to replace trauma, anxiety, and fear with love and celebration. The organization was established in August of 2020, and Monarch 61 opened a 4,000 square foot healing space in September of 2021. Nicole’s passion is to see women thrive.

Ashlyne Switzer

Development Director + Volunteer Coordinator

Ashlyne is passionate about advocating for vulnerable populations and creating meaningful change within communities. After earning her B.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama, she dedicated her career to child advocacy and social services—working in investigative roles with the Arkansas Department of Human Services and later as a Forensic Interview Specialist with the Hamilton Center for Child Advocacy. Ashlyne has recently completed the Graduate Certificate program in Nonprofit Management at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock. Ashlyne’s time at UALR, particularly her internship with Monarch 61 Project, has been instrumental in shaping her future in nonprofit leadership. Since completing her graduate program, she has stepped into the role of Development Director at Monarch 61, where she assists in grant writing, program development, and community engagement to expand access to critical services for young girls and women across Arkansas. Ashlyne is committed to building sustainable, trauma-informed solutions that make a lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most.

OUR CORE VALUES

ROOT

We believe in the power of prevention as the foundation for lasting change. By addressing challenges before they arise, we empower women and girls to build strong, resilient lives, ensuring they have the tools to avoid trauma and adversity.

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RISE

We are committed to guiding women and girls on their healing journeys. Through support, understanding, and empowerment, we help them rise above their experiences, reclaim their voices, and step into their full potential.

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THRIVE

We foster a vibrant, empowered community where women and girls are supported in their growth, leadership, and success. Together, we create environments where individuals thrive - finding strength in one another and in the opportunities before them.

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Board of Directors

  • Virginia Shelly

    Board President

    Team Leader
    Keller Williams Platinum Realty

    1st Term: Sep. 1, 2022-Aug. 31, 2025
    2nd Term: Sep. 2, 2025-Aug. 31, 2028

  • Cody Collier

    Board Treasurer

    Connections Pastor
    Merge Church
    1st Term: Jan. 1, 2024 - Dec. 31, 2026

  • Ashley Smith

    Board Secretary

    Executive Director of Surgical Technology
    University of Arkansas Fort Smith
    1st Term: Jan. 1, 2024 - Dec. 31, 2026

  • Shannon Newerth-Henson

    Board Director

    Community Outreach Specialist
    My HR Pros
    1st Term: May 1, 2025 - April 30, 2027

  • Kim Brown

    Board Director

    Branch Manager
    Citizens Bank & Trust
    1st Term: January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2028

  • Savanah Conaway

    Board Director

    Branch Manager
    United Federal Credit Union
    1st Term: January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2028

  • Kylie Ardemagni

    Board Director

    Sergeant
    Van Buren Police Department
    1st Term: January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2028

 Questions + Answers

 

  • All Monarch 61 programs and services are provided at no cost to participants. We believe access to healing, prevention, and support should never be limited by financial barriers. Our work is made possible through donations, grants, and community partnerships.

  • No. Monarch 61 does not provide housing or emergency shelter. However, we regularly partner with trusted local agencies and can help connect individuals to appropriate resources when immediate needs arise.

  • Yes. Protecting the privacy and dignity of those we serve is a top priority. Personal information is kept confidential and only shared when legally required or with a participant’s informed consent.

  • Monarch 61 is not a therapy provider. Our programs are trauma-informed and healing-centered, but they do not replace licensed clinical therapy. When appropriate, we can help connect participants with mental health professionals and additional community resources.

  • Our programs serve women and girls who have experienced trauma or are at increased risk due to factors such as abuse, violence, or poverty. We also support caring professionals, volunteers, and community members through education, connection, and advocacy.

  • There are many ways to get involved, whether you’re interested in volunteering, partnering, donating, or attending events. We welcome individuals and organizations who share our commitment to prevention, healing, and empowering our community.