Irene Lindsay Brantley's passion is working to empower survivors of domestic violence and substance abuse to make positive changes in their lives, free of addiction, poverty, and violence. As Women In Transition's Program Director, Irene is the force behind WIT's free and confidential domestic violence and substance use services.

Irene was instrumental in the creation of WIT's Sister Circle Peer Support group and Survivors' Network, expanding the organization's services to include therapy and multilingual programming so that language is never a barrier to a survivor finding safety. Her work is rooted in a simple belief: survivors deserve support without judgment or conditions attached, and healing happens fastest in a community with others who understand.

That same philosophy shows up in how Irene advocates for the people she serves, never asking anyone to be anything other than exactly who they are and always meeting survivors where they are in their healing process. “Empowerment is the thread that runs through WIT’s programs and impacts both clients and staff,” she says.

She ensures survivors are heard, believed, and empowered. She recognizes their strength, resilience, and potential—and, most importantly, helps them see and believe those traits in themselves. Her leadership is both steadfast and compassionate, always centering the survivor.

Outside of WIT, Irene brings her full-hearted energy to all aspects of her life: spending time in the garden, dancing (Earth, Wind and Fire is her favorite), and playing with her dog, Toby. Whether she's building new programming at WIT or enjoying her time at home, Irene leads with authenticity, showing survivors that healing is possible.