Castanita Fitzpatrick

CEO and founder

Fly With Both Wings 501(c) (3)

Castanita Fitzpatrick is a resilient survivor, business owner, nonprofit founder, and author, whose life story is a powerful testament to strength and perseverance. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Castanita faced immense challenges from a young age, including parental addiction, homelessness, and sexual exploitation. Despite these hardships, she has transformed her life through sheer determination and faith. After spending 31 years on the streets, Castanita made a pivotal decision on August 6, 2010, to reclaim her life. She embarked on a journey of recovery and education, eventually earning her high school diploma and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Social Work. Her academic achievements also include a certificate in Human Services, marking her dedication to personal growth and her commitment to helping others. In 2020, Castanita founded *A Butterfly Gets Her Wings Back, LLC*, a business that embodies her mission to empower and uplift women from all walks of life. As a published author of *"Thirty-One Years in The Desert,"* she shares her story to inspire others to overcome adversity and find their true worth. Driven by her own experiences, Castanita also co-founded *Fly With Both Wings 501(c)(3)*, a nonprofit organization focused on providing housing, education, and support to young women who have faced sexual exploitation. Through this initiative, she is dedicated to helping others rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. With 14 years of sobriety, Castanita is a passionate advocate for women, regularly speaking at events to encourage others to recognize their value and potential. Her journey is one of faith, resilience, and continuous growth, and she remains committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.