ABOUT OUR MISSION:

Lady Sentinel is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women to overcome fear, build knowledge and capability, and embrace confidence through accessible training and community support. Our programs combine practical self-defense, firearms safety, mindset development, and leadership growth in an environment that is welcoming, supportive, and encouraging.

We believe that confidence is built through competence. That competence comes from education, experience, and consistency. Lady Sentinel provides the structure, mentorship, and sisterhood that help women grow both on and off the range. Through hands-on training, real conversations, and mutual support, women discover their strength and learn how to carry it confidently into every part of life.

Many women sacrifice their own training, growth, and personal needs while meeting the demands of others, often putting family, work, and daily responsibilities ahead of themselves. We offer multiple sessions each month to fit into busy schedules, making it easier for women to prioritize themselves again. Furthermore, we’ve built a community that helps remove the fear of showing up in the first place. Whether you bring a friend or make a new one when you arrive, you’ll find encouragement, belonging, and growth every step of the way.

OUR ROOTS:

Lady Sentinel began when Elizabeth, a firearms instructor, teaching women-only classes, noticed how many women arrived to training filled with fear, hesitation, and uncertainty, but left with confidence, laughter, and a new sense of strength. Time after time, she watched women who once doubted themselves begin to carry themselves with strength and purpose. What began as instruction in firearms safety quickly revealed something deeper: women weren’t just learning to shoot, they were learning to believe in themselves.

Elizabeth herself once described being risk-averse, but through the coaching and leadership at The Range St. Louis West, she was reminded daily of her capabilities and was motivated to keep moving forward. That same encouragement and leadership became the foundation of what Lady Sentinel now provides to others; a place where women can see their own value, build competence through training, and transform fear into confident forward momentum.

Now, Lady Sentinel takes that same leadership mindset to help other women discover and develop their own leadership opportunities. We find fulfillment in watching women step into roles that challenge and strengthen them, building confidence not only in themselves but in those around them. Each woman who grows within Lady Sentinel helps carry the mission forward, creating a ripple effect of empowerment that extends far beyond the range.

CORE VALUES:

• Safety First – Every program begins and ends with safety. This is the cornerstone of empowerment and responsibility.
• Low-Barrier Access – We ensure that every woman has the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of experience or finances.
• Leadership & Determination – Our programs build resilience, courage, and the ability to lead under pressure.
• Community & Mentorship – Empowered women empower others. Lady Sentinel is built on connection, trust, and shared growth.
• Confidence Through Competence – Skill and understanding create confidence that extends far beyond the range.

HOW FUNDS ARE USED:

Every dollar donated to Lady Sentinel goes directly toward helping women grow and thrive through education and empowerment. We are deeply committed to transparency and responsible stewardship.

• Scholarships & Fee Assistance – Keeping class fees low or free to eliminate financial barriers to education.
• Training & Education – Supporting curriculum development, instructor training, range costs, and equipment needs for the women participating in the program.
• Community Outreach – Hosting events, awareness seminars, and open sessions to support women in the community.
• Chapter Growth – Expanding Lady Sentinel chapters across Missouri and beyond to reach more women nationwide.
• Community Support –Providing aid to women who are in need of a community that helps them take their power back. This includes donations to shelters and direct support for women who need to leave unsafe or difficult situations.

BOARD & LEADERSHIP:

Lady Sentinel, Inc. is guided by a strong and dedicated team that makes this mission possible every day. Our board members include Elizabeth Starks, Phil Balsamo, Jennifer Stempel, Beth Whitworth, and John Henderson, each bringing unique expertise, leadership, and heart to the organization. Together, they provide direction, accountability, and vision for the continued growth of Lady Sentinel.

Supporting the board are Nat Polsing and Lisa Bergfeld, who serve as vital committee members. Both play extremely important roles within the community, helping to plan events, engage members, and strengthen the bonds that make Lady Sentinel more than a training group.

DONATE:

Your support fuels everything we do. Donations fund scholarships, training opportunities, community events, and outreach programs that empower women through education and connection. Every contribution directly impacts women who are learning to protect themselves, their families, and their futures. Lady Sentinel, Inc is a 501(c)3 exempt organizations and contributions to the entity are tax deductible.

With your help, Lady Sentinel can continue to grow, creating more opportunities for women across the country to build confidence, capability, and courage.

For employer matching, in-kind donations, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact us through our website form. We’re excited to collaborate with those who share our passion for empowerment and growth.

Thank you for believing in Lady Sentinel and being part of our story. Together, we are building something extraordinary—one woman, one moment, and one step forward at a time.

Please share with any friends you think could benefit from joining our community.