Tara Woodlee has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful force for change, becoming a leading advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Her involvement with Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence began with volunteer work that quickly evolved into leadership as she helped expand the organization’s reach and impact. From building a strong social media presence to launching healing retreats for survivors, she has been instrumental in the organization’s growth. She is president and chief executive officer, guiding advocacy efforts, managing partnerships and grants, coordinating survivor retreats in Texas and Colorado Springs, and overseeing financial literacy programs and scholarship awards designed to support those affected by abuse.
Ms. Woodlee’s educational journey has supported her professional and advocacy work. Her academic background includes college coursework that laid the foundation for her expertise in nonprofit leadership and domestic violence awareness. She also holds multiple certifications that have enhanced her ability to lead with purpose and credibility. These include a life coaching certification, a legality assessment certification, and a certification in violence prevention awareness strategy through diversity and inclusion. These credentials support her efforts in legislative advocacy, public speaking and survivor support initiatives.
Before leading Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence, Ms. Woodlee built a career shaped by leadership and resilience. She served as a church administrative assistant at Senton Lane Baptist Church, a role that strengthened her organizational and administrative skills. Earlier, she managed a Wilson’s Leather retail store, gaining hands-on experience in team leadership, customer service and operational management. Each role prepared her to lead with compassion, discipline and strategic focus in the nonprofit sector.
Ms. Woodlee’s commitment to civic service extends beyond her organizational leadership. She founded Ashleigh’s Patience Project to honor her daughter and to provide resources and emotional support to families impacted by domestic violence. Her work has earned national recognition, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteerism from the Points of Light Foundation and a Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteerism from DomesticShelters.org. These honors reflect her deep dedication to creating safer, more informed communities.
As a speaker and advocate, Ms. Woodlee uses her voice to amplify the experiences of survivors. She was invited to speak before the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, a milestone that underscored her global perspective on gender-based violence. Her podcast, “Through the Eyes of Survivors,” offers a space for survivors to share their journeys, fostering connection and healing. She is also completing a book titled “Testimony,” which recounts her path from personal loss to national advocacy.
Outside of her professional work, Ms. Woodlee finds peace in gardening and treasures time with her grandchildren. These personal joys keep her grounded as she continues her mission to bring awareness and change to the issue of domestic violence. Through every speech, podcast episode and written page, she carries forward the legacy of her daughter and inspires others to share their truths.
Ms. Woodlee attributes her success to authenticity and a deep commitment to community. As a survivor herself, she connects with others through honesty and empathy, encouraging victims to share their own stories and seek support. Her work fosters a culture of awareness, prevention and understanding, ensuring that silence is no longer an option.