Get to Know Me

Karen Melissa-López Scott is a bilingual Afro-Latina cis-gendered woman that has worked serving communities in need for more than a decade.

Karen is a highly experienced and dedicated professional in the field of domestic violence advocacy and gender-based violence prevention. As a certified Domestic Violence (DV) Advocate in the state of New Jersey, Karen has leveraged her extensive expertise to support and empower survivors of gender-based violence since 2011. Her passion for advocacy and education has led her to work with various domestic violence organizations across multiple states, broadening her impact and reach.

• Professional Background:

  Domestic Violence Advocacy: With over a decade of hands-on experience, Karen has provided critical support to survivors of gender-based violence, guiding them through recovery and empowering them to reclaim their lives. Her role as a DV advocate has involved offering emotional support, legal guidance, and safety planning.

• Workshop and Training Facilitation:

  Karen has facilitated hundreds of workshops and training sessions on gender-based violence and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEiB). Her engaging and informative sessions have educated countless individuals and organizations on recognizing, preventing, and addressing issues related to violence and discrimination.

• Advocacy for Diverse Communities:

  Beyond her work in domestic violence, Karen has been a steadfast advocate for people from diverse, oppressed, and marginalized communities. Her efforts have focused on ensuring equitable access to resources, support, and opportunities for those who are often overlooked or underserved.

• Educational Background:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a Concentration in Addictions:

    Karen's undergraduate studies provided her with a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, addiction, and mental health, which she has effectively applied in her advocacy work.

  • Master's Degree in Human Services:

    Her advanced degree has equipped her with comprehensive knowledge and skills in human services, enhancing her ability to support individuals and communities through various challenges and crises.

• Professional Skills and Expertise:

  • Certified Domestic Violence Advocate & Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate:

    Expertise in providing advocacy, support, and resources to survivors of domestic and gender-based violence.

  • Experienced Trainer and Facilitator:

    Proven track record of delivering impactful workshops and training sessions on gender-based violence, DEiB, and related topics.

  • Community Advocacy:

    Strong background in advocating for the rights and needs of diverse and marginalized populations, promoting equity and inclusion.

  • Collaborative and Transformational Leadership:

    Ability to work effectively with various stakeholders, including non-profits, community organizations, and governmental agencies, to drive positive change.

Karen's dedication to advocacy, education, and support for survivors of gender-based violence and marginalized communities underscores her commitment to creating safer, more inclusive environments. Her leadership and expertise are invaluable assets to the mission and vision of our organization.

Karen is a wife and mother. Karen is an activist, as well, for different social causes. Karen enjoys spending her spare time with her husband and children, traveling, reading, and learning

I, Karen, am humbled and honored that you took the time to read about me. I am honored to work with you.

Always remember that you are enough. You are NOT your circumstances. Your past is not all who you are. Together we can peel back the layers of who you are. Sending love and light ❤️