Hometown: Richlands, Virginia

Career: Television Fitness Host/Owner Fit and Fab Fitness
Volunteer Executive Director/Founder Dress for Success Abingdon

Becoming Mrs. Virginia-America is an honor I cherish along with living my dream of having a loving family, a home, and an incredible outreach to empower women all over the world through Dress for Success Worldwide! During my earlier years of hardship, God gave me the courage to overcome obesity, poverty, and survive domestic abuse. I prayed endlessly to have a loving family, a purpose, and a fulfilled life. He granted my wishes when He gave me my daughter Tasha, and my incredible husband Doug! My family is my testimony and my strength that fuels my gratitude for life, and my passion to serve others!

Little did I know that throughout all of the years of struggle and adversity, I was being prepared to live out my purpose later in life as a wife, mother and to serve the disadvantaged like I once was. It is my joy to help women all over the world to become successful polished professionals that are no longer broken, but viable parts in their homes, and communities. Through empowerment, and motivation, they can provide for their children, while having the security of a stable home. My family and I are humbled and in awe when we see families and homes restored, and many dreams fulfilled!

During my year of service, I will continue to make a difference for these brave women and their children, while representing the precious gift of marriage and family. It is possible to change lives all over the world, and I am grateful for this incredible opportunity.

“Empowering Women for Success” www.tonyaratliff.blogspot.com