Rebuilding Vicksburg: A Journey of Hope

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — For Elnoro Winston, survival has never been enough. The Army veteran and mother of three has weathered combat zones, a painful divorce, homelessness and a high-risk pregnancy during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, through each battle, she found a deeper purpose, one that now fuels her mission to rebuild both lives and neighborhoods in Vicksburg.

After retiring from a 20-year military career, Winston moved to Vicksburg in 2021 with her daughters, Serenity, Maleah and newborn Winter. What could have marked an ending became a turning point. She saw the city’s boarded-up homes and struggling blocks as reminders of her own story: broken, but still full of potential.

That vision inspired Winston to launch Rebuilding Vicksburg from the Inside Out, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring not only houses but also dignity, safety and opportunity for families. The organization focuses on supporting women, children and veterans, creating spaces where resilience can take root.

“Everything I do is personal,” Winston said. “Every project comes from a place I’ve walked through myself.”

Her work is grounded in empathy, reflecting the storms she has carried her own children through. By channeling her struggles into service, Winston hopes to show her community that transformation is possible — not just for structures, but for spirits.

“If you’ve ever felt forgotten or overlooked,” she said, “I see you. And I’m building this with you in mind.”

Winston’s story is one of persistence, faith and rebuilding , proof that change begins from the inside out.