Summary of my Interview with Dr. Michelle M. Kang, Mia F., a student at DMACC
Dec. 5, 2024, 4:30 – 5:10 pm EST
I had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Michelle M. Kang, founder and CEO of One Life One Heart International (OLOH). During our conversation, Michelle shared her valuable insights about the organization she created and its role in serving the community. Michelle is a strong, inspirational leader who’s dedicated to helping others. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with her and learn about the mission and goals of One Life One Heart.
One Life One Heart is a non-profit organization based in Ames, Iowa. It is also part of an international network. According to the organization’s website, “the purpose of the corporation is to address, educate, and provide programs and services to prevent sexual abuse on a local and global level and to support sexual abuse survivors in their journey to healing and empowerment.” On-site and core volunteers support the organization’s work. Core volunteers as leaders recruit and train new volunteers from their communities. On-site volunteers provide the OLOH programs to support the mental healthcare needs of sexual abuse victims in healing and empowerment. Volunteers are vital to One Life One Heart, providing programs and supporting healing and empowerment to participating survivors. The programs are delivered at public venues, such as churches and libraries.
During the interview, I asked Dr. Kang how and why she chose the name “One Life One Heart.” She shared her personal story with me, “I went through hardships and challenges for forty years.” Referring to her own experience with sexual abuse, she explained, “The name reflects the intertwining of only ever having one heart in your lifetime, which carries joyous stories as well as tragic ones.” I found the name and the symbolism behind it to be so incredibly powerful. Dr. Kang also explained to me her role within the organization as the president. She oversees the implementation and execution of programs, ensuring the organization creates a positive and practical impact. Toward the end of the interview, I asked her how One Life One Heart ensures its services and communication are sensitive and inclusive of different backgrounds and perspectives. Her response included, “All volunteers are trained to effectively interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including men and women of all ages.” This statement acknowledges that anyone can be a victim of sexual abuse. The statement not only stood out to me but also reminded me of the societal stigma toward men who endure sexual abuse/harassment attributed to stereotypes surrounding masculinity. It is unfortunate, so I find it remarkable how inclusive the organization is, welcoming people from all walks of life, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or age.
After speaking with Dr. Michelle M. Kang, I have learned more about the organization’s mission and goals and been motivated to help others. I have been reminded that anyone, anywhere, can have had something so unfortunate happen to them that maybe no one would ever know. One Life One Heart offers a path toward healing and empowerment, acknowledging the tragic experiences one has endured—especially those who may be silently suffering or feeling alone in their battle in underserved communities.
Works Cited:
One Life One Heart International, onelifeoneheartinternational.org/. Accessed 9 Dec. 2024. https://onelifeoneheartinternational.org.