Karen Kendra Holmes has been showing up and making a difference in her community not just as a member of the transgender community but most of her life. Being of service to others is just what she does! When not speaking publicly, Karen continues working with local police departments helping to bring dignity and respect to police interactions with members of the transgender community She was recognized twice as "Soldier of the Year" by the State Guard Association of the United States and the Maryland State Guard Association. This Award-Winning Public Servant and Transgender advocate shared her passion for helping others transition and to foster acceptance and support from those around them in a 2018 Tedx Talk. She has been doing volunteer work with the Maryland Defense Force; done volunteer work with the American Red Cross for the National Capital Region and has been volunteering with Community Emergency Response Team in Prince George's County, Maryland. Her latest endeavor "The Butterfly Project" housed in the Prince George's County Memorial library provides resources for Trans and Non-Binary Folks. The Butterfly Project is a dedicated workforce development project at the Fairmount Heights Branch Library specifically for young Black and brown trans women, who are among the most at-risk people in our community. Inspired by the life and work of Karen Holmes, head of the Prince George’s Trans Coalition, the program seeks to ready young women for the job market and connect them with vital, affirming services. No matter your living, earning, or job skills situation, The Butterfly Project fosters a respectful, non-judgmental space to help young women blossom at their own pace in a safe environment