How it all started...
Nalha, a 16-year-old pregnant teen, was under my mentorship while staying at a home for pregnant teens. When her baby was born, her parents did not come to take her home, putting her at risk of being placed in foster care and separated from her child. To prevent this, my husband and I took Nalha and her baby into our home and eventually adopted her. Our initial goal was to find a supportive environment for her, but we found that no such resources existed. This realization led us to question where teen mothers without a safe place might go. This gap in support inspired the creation of Cradle of Hope NWA.
Expanding the vision...
Expanding the vision of Cradle of Hope NWA involves broadening our reach and impact to serve more young families in need. By enhancing our programs and resources, we aim to provide comprehensive support that includes housing, education, and counseling services. Our goal is to establish a network of community partners and stakeholders to strengthen our efforts and create a sustainable model of care. Through these expansions, we aspire to ensure that every teen parent in Northwest Arkansas has access to the resources and support necessary for a successful and hopeful future.
Where we are headed...
Looking ahead, Cradle of Hope NWA is focused on growing our capacity to support more young families across Northwest Arkansas. We plan to expand our facilities and services, introduce innovative programs tailored to the evolving needs of teen parents, and build strategic partnerships with local organizations and businesses. Our vision includes creating a dedicated center that offers a range of resources, from housing to career development, ensuring that every young mother and child receives the comprehensive support they need to thrive. Through these efforts, we aim to become a cornerstone of hope and stability in our community.
