“I Am Woman”: Danielle’s Mission to Empower, Connect, and Inspire
Sometimes a dream is born not in a boardroom, but at a kitchen table—during quiet moments of self-reflection and scribbled affirmations. That’s how Danielle, founder of I Am Woman, began a journey that has since touched the lives of countless women in the Bloomington-Normal community.
What started as personal healing and connection has blossomed into a powerful, fluid mission: helping women feel seen, supported, and empowered—right where they are.
The Beginning: From Affirmation to Action
Years ago, Danielle found herself at a turning point. As a single mom of two, navigating life and business felt overwhelming. But one evening, she started writing “I Am” statements—affirmations that helped her reconnect with who she was and what she was capable of.
“I realized there are a lot of women who probably feel the same way,” she said. “I wanted to create something that would help women know who they are—and have the support to live the life they deserve.”
From those affirmations, I Am Woman was born.
More Than Networking: Creating Safe, Supportive Spaces
At first, I Am Woman took the shape of networking events like “I Am Happy Hour”—spaces where women could introduce themselves, share their goals, and begin finding their voice again.
But it quickly evolved into something more.
“I didn’t want to reinvent the wheel. There are already amazing nonprofits doing the work,” Danielle explained. “I wanted to collaborate—to meet women where they are, whether that means offering food resources, business opportunities, or just a safe space to be heard.”
The mission remains simple and powerful: to put support in the palm of every woman’s hand.
Building Community Through Vulnerability
Throughout her journey, Danielle has found strength in vulnerability—and in the community that showed up for her.
From entrepreneurs like Jeanette Jurczyk of That's What She Said to April Fritzen from Coffee Hound, Danielle said she’s been surrounded by people willing to offer hugs, advice, and opportunities.
“In my most vulnerable moments, people came out of the woodwork,” she shared. “That’s why I want to give back—because I’ve been given so much.”
A Full Circle Moment: Dream Girl Comes to Town
One of Danielle’s most emotional milestones is happening this summer: the public screening of Dream Girl, a documentary that first inspired her entrepreneurial journey, followed by a live panel discussion featuring the film’s director Erin Bagwell—and local women who’ve supported Danielle along the way.
📍 Event: Dream Girl Screening + Panel
📅 Date: June 27th
📍 Location: Normal Theater
“When I first watched Dream Girl on YouTube, I needed someone to tell me there was more out there. Now, I’m bringing that experience to other women.”
What’s Next for I Am Woman?
Danielle isn’t working off a rigid business plan—she’s letting her mission lead the way.
Whether that means more events, eventually opening a storefront, or offering collaborative opportunities for women to launch businesses of their own, one thing is certain: I Am Woman is growing with intention.
“I'm not forcing anything. I’ve learned to take the right steps, and trust the process.”
Why Bloomington-Normal?
Danielle credits much of her progress to the supportive spirit of the Bloomington-Normal community.
“This town has a collaborative heart. People here believe there’s pie for everyone—they want to help each other rise.”
Whether it’s walking the Constitution Trail, brainstorming at Coffee Hound, or watching her kids play Uptown when music fills the circle, she says it’s a perfect place to raise a family—and pursue a dream.