In the heart of Brooklyn, Tamica Newton is on a mission to uplift, inspire, and empower survivors of cancer and other illnesses, as well as their caregivers. Ten years ago, she founded The Circle of Champions Celebrating Survivors Inc., a vibrant support network and community where resilience is celebrated, and everyday heroes are honored. For Tamica, this work is deeply personal.
A Personal Inspiration
The idea for Circle of Champions Celebrating Survivors Inc. stemmed from Tamica’s own experiences with loss and survival. After losing her mother to multiple myeloma and supporting a close friend through breast cancer, she felt a strong call to create something meaningful. “I wanted to celebrate survivors by offering them support and a helping hand,” Tamica explains. Inspired by her mother, a mental health therapy aide who emphasized giving back, Tamica pursued a career in social services, eventually founding *Circle of Champions* to fulfill her vision.
A Safe Space for Growth
The Circle of Champions offers much more than emotional support. It’s a safe, empowering space for survivors and caregivers, where they can access resources, education, and a compassionate community. The organization advocates for awareness around issues such as cancer, domestic violence, bullying, HIV/AIDS, autism, and more. Through workshops and community events, Circle of Champions helps individuals move beyond surviving to truly thriving. The organization’s motto, “We create a place where you are seen and heard,” underscores the importance of feeling acknowledged and validated.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Circle of Champions is now expanding its outreach, aiming to serve communities across all 50 states. Currently, it operates in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, and Georgia (virtually), extending support and empowerment to even more people, enabling them to live fulfilling lives despite their hardships.
Honoring Everyday Champions
Each November, Circle of Champions hosts a special event to honor survivors and caregivers. This year’s event on November 16 is especially meaningful, as it celebrates the organization’s 10-year milestone. “We recognize everyday people who have shown courage and strength,” Tamica shares. The event highlights not only the struggles but also the hope, perseverance, and strength that define true champions.
A prime example of resilience within the organization is Vice President Elizabeth Jenkins. A breast cancer survivor who overcame three types of arthritis and battled COVID-19, she spent two weeks in a coma and endured 130 days of rehabilitation to re-learn how to walk. Despite these challenges, she is a deacon at her church, a mentor, and a steadfast support for others. “She’s a constant source of inspiration,” says Tamica, celebrating Elizabeth’s strength as a true embodiment of the champion spirit.
A Growing Legacy
Circle of Champions continues to expand and make a positive impact. In August, the organization held a back-to-school drive in Brooklyn. In September, they supported Theresa Tucker, a 2017 honoree for multiple myeloma. This October, they are collaborating with Elizabeth Jenkins, a 2015 arthritis honoree, and Team Brooklyn Spice for the Breast Cancer Walk in Coney Island. Through community engagement and collaboration, Tamica’s vision shines—she is determined to extend the organization’s reach and touch as many lives as possible. A single mother of three daughters, Tamica knows the power of perseverance and community support. Outside of her work, she finds balance in reading, traveling, and listening to music, which fuel her continued dedication to the cause.
From Surviving to Thriving
Circle of Champions’ tagline, “From Surviving to Thriving,” perfectly captures Tamica’s vision of ensuring that survivors and caregivers are celebrated and empowered. The organization’s bold future is inspiring, and with the commitment of its team and a community of champions, Circle of Champions will continue making a meaningful impact, one survivor at a time.
To Tamica, everyone is a champion. “You don’t have to be rich; all you need is care,” she says. At its core, Circle of Champions embodies this belief, providing a compassionate space where every individual is empowered to reach their full potential.
Learn more at: Circle of Champions Celebrating Survivors Inc.
