Meet Castanita Fitzpatrick | Founder and CEO of Fly With Both Wings 501(c) (3)

We had the good fortune of connecting with Castanita Fitzpatrick and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Castanita, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
As a survivor and founder of Fly With Both Wings, I often ask myself whether to keep going or give up. The journey of establishing a nonprofit is fraught with challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. Yet, it is in these moments that I find the most profound clarity and purpose.

I know to keep going because the vision of Fly With Both Wings is more than an organization; it’s a lifeline for those who have endured what I have. Each setback is a reminder of the urgent need for the support and services we plan to offer. When I think of the young women who will benefit from a safe home, trauma-informed care, and opportunities for growth, I am reminded that giving up is not an option.

The decision to persist is anchored in my belief in the transformative power of community and support. Every challenge we face in building this nonprofit is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and strengthen our resolve. The lives that will be touched and the hope that will be restored make every effort worthwhile.

The profound truth is that giving up would mean turning away from the very essence of my survival and the purpose that has emerged from my experiences. Fly With Both Wings represents a promise to myself and to others—that healing, empowerment, and transformation are possible. In this mission, I find the strength to persevere, knowing that the impact of our work will ripple far beyond our immediate reach, offering hope and a path to recovery for countless survivors.

In the end, the decision to keep going is fueled by a deep-seated commitment to making a difference, a commitment that transcends the obstacles and challenges we face. It is the unwavering belief that every step forward brings us closer to creating a world where survivors can truly spread their wings and soar.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Fly With Both Wings sets itself apart through its holistic approach to supporting sexually exploited young women. While many programs offer basic services, Fly With Both Wings provides comprehensive trauma-informed care, including mental health counseling, financial literacy, and a unique aftercare housing component. This aftercare component is designed to ensure continued support and stability for graduates, helping them transition successfully into independent living. Additionally, the organization’s commitment to personalized care and its deep understanding of the challenges faced by survivors further distinguish it from other programs.
As a survivor and CEO of Fly With Both Wings, I am immensely proud of the resilience and leadership that have fueled my journey from a place of deep personal struggle to founding a transformative organization. My pride extends to the innovative programs we’ve developed, particularly our unique aftercare housing component, which provides ongoing support and stability for survivors.
I am filled with excitement about the unprecedented opportunity to expand our impact, raise awareness on a global scale, and build a network of partners dedicated to systemic change. This milestone represents not just a new chapter for Fly With Both Wings but a beacon of hope and empowerment for survivors around the world.
Despite facing significant personal challenges, my unwavering faith and deep passion for helping others have been my guiding lights. Through every obstacle, I remained steadfast in my dream to create Fly With Both Wings, driven by a commitment to support and empower sexually exploited young women. My journey has been marked by resilience and a refusal to give up, with faith providing the strength and determination to overcome hardships. Today, Fly With Both Wings stands as a testament to that perseverance, reflecting both my personal triumphs and the profound impact we aim to make in the lives of those we serve.
Overcoming the obstacles that sought to stop me required a blend of resilience, strategic thinking, and unwavering determination. I confronted each challenge head-on, leveraging my personal experiences and faith as sources of strength and inspiration. By staying focused on my vision for Fly With Both Wings, I navigated setbacks with a problem-solving mindset and sought support from a network of allies and mentors. My faith played a crucial role in sustaining my motivation and providing clarity during difficult times. Through perseverance and adaptability, I transformed obstacles into opportunities for growth, ensuring that my commitment to the mission remained steadfast.
Navigating the journey to establish Fly With Both Wings has been a profound learning experience, full of rich, layered insights. Each obstacle became a classroom, teaching me not just about resilience, but about the power of patience and adaptability. I learned that every challenge holds a deeper lesson—like discovering that setbacks are merely setups for comebacks, and that true leadership is forged through empathy and perseverance. Each lesson within a lesson revealed that the heart of success lies in embracing both the triumphs and the trials, understanding that growth often springs from the most unexpected places.
My journey, marked by 31 years of exploitation, is a testament to the power of resilience and hope. Despite enduring profound hardships, I refused to surrender to despair. No one deserves to be exploited, and my experiences fuel my passion as a motivational speaker and author of 31 Years in the Desert. Each day was a battle for survival and a step toward reclaiming my life, which ultimately led to the birth of Fly With Both Wings. Today, I share my story to highlight the strength found in adversity and to inspire others. My journey underscores the importance of perseverance, faith, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of transformation and healing, proving that even the darkest past can give rise to a brighter future.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1:
Morning: Pick up my friend from the airport and settle in.
Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at The Rustic, known for its great atmosphere and American fare.
Afternoon: Stroll through Klyde Warren Park and relax with some people-watching or a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art.
Dinner: Head to Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum for some of the best BBQ in Dallas.

Day 2: Downtown and Historical Sights
Morning: Explore the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to learn about JFK’s legacy.
Lunch: Try Ellen’s Southern Kitchen for a taste of Southern comfort food.
Afternoon: Walk around the Dallas Farmers Market and explore local vendors.
Dinner: Dine at Sprezza, an upscale Italian restaurant with a fantastic ambiance.

Day 3: Culture and Shopping
Morning: Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for interactive exhibits and stunning architecture.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Meddlesome Moth for creative dishes.
Afternoon: Spend some time shopping at NorthPark Center or Highland Park Village.
Dinner: Enjoy a meal at The Grove, a trendy spot with a modern American menu.

Day 4: Nature, and Shopping
Morning: Visit the Dallas Botanical Garden for a serene stroll among beautiful landscapes.
Lunch: Have lunch at the garden’s Ralph’s on the Park for a scenic dining experience.
Afternoon: Head to Traders Village for a unique shopping experience with a wide array of vendors, food stalls, and entertainment.
Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Tei-An, a renowned Japanese restaurant known for its elegant dishes and ambiance.

Day 5: Adventure and Entertainment
Morning: Head to White Rock Lake for a bike ride or a leisurely walk.
Lunch: Stop by Lakewood Landing for classic diner fare.
Afternoon: Explore Deep Ellum with its street art, boutique shops, and unique vibe.
Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Hattie’s, known for its Southern cuisine and lively atmosphere.

Day 6: Day Trip
Morning: Take a day trip to Fort Worth and visit the Stockyards National Historic District.
Lunch: Have a meal at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in the Stockyards.
Afternoon: Explore the Fort Worth Cultural District and visit the Kimbell Art Museum.
Dinner: Return to Dallas and enjoy a casual dinner at The Smithy, offering a great selection of comfort food.

Day 7: Relax and Farewell
Morning: Prepare a home-cooked farewell brunch with my friend, featuring a selection of her favorite dishes.
Afternoon: Visit Bishop Arts District for its eclectic shops, galleries, and coffee shops.
Dinner: Celebrate the last night with a memorable dinner at Pappas Bros. Steakhouse for an exceptional dining experience.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First person is my bestie Gwen Morrow. Her friendship means the world to me even at my darkest times. I am truly grateful for her support, encouragement, and her friendship. We both empower each other.

There are a lot of people, organizations, family members that have played a crucial role in my journey. They have given me one thing that was missing in my life; they all believed in me with that I want to say thank you.
My auntie and uncle after being reconnected they have not stop with the support, love, and encouraging me to continue to be the best me i can be.
The organizations providing me with the tools and resources that have been in my tool box since the beginning with it my vision is turning into a reality.
From the teachers who help me get my high school diploma, to the college who help me get my degree while I was homeless. Each person in my life from the beginning to now I am using all what they poured and still pouring into me. This is why I continue to empower and make a meaningful impact into the lives of the women I serve. Thank you to everyone

Website: https://flywithbothwings.org

Instagram: #abutterflygetsherwing