Hi, I’m Melanie Arnaud, I’m a mom, a grandma to 8 beautiful grandchildren and I’ve lived in Hardin County all my life. My friend and mentor, Hattie Darks, always said ‘women need to help women, lift each other up and encourage one another’.  It is with that in mind that Hattie’s Place was born. It has always been my heartbeat to help others and to see them succeed. My prayer is that we can reach our community through love and encouragement and bring hope to those around us and help change someone’s life regardless of how big or how small the need is. I am one of you and I pray we can bring hope and healing to your heart today.

My name is Jody Wade. I’ve been married for almost 30 years and I have 1 daughter and a sweet grandson! I have worked for a nonprofit before and loved every minute of it. I love this community. I’ve only lived here for right at nine years.  I’ve grown to love Hardin County and I was so excited when I was asked to be a part of something so rewarding. I look forward to serving this community and helping others to restore their lives, give them a hand up, and make a difference where it matters.

I was a rebellious teen, in and out of jail, battling addiction most of my life. One day I found the mercy of God in an Apostolic church and my life was forever changed. God cleaned me up, and enabled me to get training and go thru classes to become a Life Recovery instructor, where I now help others fight addictions in their lives. I am thankful to serve Hardin County and be part of this great community.

Hi, my name is Casey LeBlanc, I am happily married to a wonderful man  and we have a beautiful daughter. Just a little something about me, is that I love my community! I love to contribute to our community! I have lived in Silsbee Texas for 42 years! I was born and raised here! I am heavily involved in different departments in our church Abundant Life! Worship department, Ladies department, even in our school Life Academy! I look forward to serving this community for many years. 

I haven’t always lived in freedom — my story began in dysfunction. But through Jesus Christ, my life was transformed, and now I live as His servant and witness to the Power of God and change . My passion is to help others find wholeness, freedom, and purpose, walking in victory every single day. I believe in the power of love and do my best to show grace, kindness, and mercy to everyone I meet.

Hello, my name is Kandis Griffis.  Growing up in a home with both parents bound by addiction, my life was not exactly set up for success early on. Understanding the one in need of a helping hand , or someone to believe in them, because that was me, and many times still is.

I’m passionate about the work Hattie’s Place will be doing . I’ve met so many women who already feel lost and without help, often ending up back in the same cycle. My heart is to see those cycles broken and to help them find stability, strength, and faith to stand on their own two feet with confidence and security. Knowing The God Who helped me, I know He is able to help others too, and I’m thankful to be a part of this bridge that will be what helps them find that hope and new beginning.