It started in 2013, in the basement of a building called, "Grandpa Tom's Cabin" at Camp David in Rolla, Missouri. We invited the mothers and caregivers of our campers, which were mostly families affected by incarceration, to a weekend retreat. The retreat was full of tears, hugs, and raw stories, and women left looking years younger.

​​

 Over the next years we witnessed women of all ages and all walks of life, shatter the walls of ethnic, cultural, and denominational divides. They connected through sharing their stories in a judgment-free zone, with courageous vulnerability. Women who had arrived with their shoulders slumped in shame and brokenness, found HOPE over the 42-hour event, and left with their eyes sparkling and their heads held high. Others came just needing to connect with God and other God’s Girls and left with their cups overflowing.

​​

After 7 years of hosting these retreats, God made it clear that it was time to expand and open these events up to more women. In that process, we re-branded as Jewel Warriors, and identified as a global movement. Our first Jewel Warrior Conference that was open to all women was held in St. Louis, in February 2020, right before our world shut down with COVID. At that point we had launched our Daily Inspirations, and they became a life-line for women who were struggling with the isolation. 

​​

In 2022, one of our leaders, Kacie Starr Long, launched our first Jewel Warrior Conference in Uganda, and in 2024 we empowered Ellen Eva Ssuubi to step in as the Director of Jewel Warriors Uganda. 2024 was also the year we launched our Prayer Line, led by Jamie Mason and Holly Bernstein. Holly is also our lead on launching our God's Girls Groups.

​

​As we've grown, the heartbeat of Jewel Warriors remains women championing each other in giving God our "Yes" and not staying stuck, no matter what life circumstances hit us. We know we are stronger together, and with Jesus at the wheel. ​

​

We'd love to have you join us. 

​

~Grace Smith, Founder & Director

​