Melanin Mommies PGH

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About Us

Our Mission

Melanin Mommies PGH centers historically marginalized African American, pregnant or parenting millennial and teen mothers.

Our mission is to assist these mothers to address and overcome intergenerational trauma and combat negative family cycles by providing resources to support mental wellness and motherhood.

We are the Village!

Our Vision

We believe that not only does it take a village to raise a child, but the village also has a responsibility to support, uplift and nurture the mother as well.

The coming together of support for that mother is transformative and we are obligated to provide access to the tools they need to become the best women and mothers they can be.

Through mentorship, connection to resources, mental health advocacy, financial education and development; we will greatly impact the world by helping to produce confident, self-sufficient, educated and empowered mothers.

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Our Founder and Executive Director

Latrice founded Melanin Mommies Pgh, Inc. in 2014 with a vision to create an online support network for expecting African American mothers. Her mission was to foster a community where new mothers could find the support they needed.

Over time, Latrice has played a pivotal role in transforming Melanin Mommies Pgh, Inc. into a comprehensive organization with a focus on programming, resources, and activities that nurture Black mothers holistically.

Latrice's academic journey includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Public Relations from Edinboro University, as well as Master's level certification in Human Resource Management from Carlow University. Currently, she is pursuing dual graduate degrees in Business Administration and Psychology.

In addition to her academic achievements, Latrice is a certified Life Coach, an accomplished Mompreneur with multiple businesses, an inspirational speaker, and holds various business certifications, including being a Mental Health First Aid Instructor and Maternal Mental Health specialist.

Latrice wears many hats and serves as the Chief Consultant of a financial and credit education firm, where she guides minority small business owners and entrepreneurs in credit improvement strategies to secure essential business capital.

Her contributions and impact have not gone unnoticed, as she was recognized and honored as a Pittsburgh 40 Under 40 awardee in 2019.

Additionally, she has been nominated for the Martin Luther King Jr. Award and Athena Pittsburgh awards in 2019 and 2021. Latrice is also celebrated as a Cribs for Kids Women of Achievement Honoree and a New Pittsburgh Courier 40 under 40 Honoree.

Her work and influence have been featured in numerous media outlets, including the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, New Pittsburgh Courier, Local Pittsburgh, Voyage MIA magazine, Pittsburgh City Paper, Soul Pitt, and more.

Her dedication to empowering and uplifting Black mothers and her substantial contributions to the community make her an inspiring and influential figure.

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Service Providers

Clinical Director-CMHC

Clinical Evaluation Partner-SWCC

Dr. Tamara Thornhill, often affectionately referred to as "Dr. T," holds a pivotal role as the Clinical Director at Melanin Mommies Pgh, where she brings an extensive background in mental health and a deep commitment to community well-being. With an impressive educational journey, she has earned a Master of Professional Counseling from Carlow University and a Doctorate of Education and Leadership from Point Park University. Dr. Thornhill possesses over 17 years of experience, seamlessly combining her expertise in mental health and non-profit sectors to make a lasting impact.

In her capacity as Clinical Director, Dr. Thornhill serves as a beacon of hope, not only providing essential mental health services but also nurturing the community through her unparalleled dedication. Her work extends beyond the traditional therapeutic space as she creates and facilitates training programs and workshops that educate, uplift, and empower individuals. It is no surprise that she has aptly embraced the moniker "Community Hope Dealer," symbolizing her unwavering commitment to healing the hearts and minds of community members.

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Clinical Evaluation Partner-SWCC

Jessica Gurley is a dedicated mental health advocate with a rich history in the field.

In her role as the Tele Mental Health Operations Manager at the Pittsburgh Veteran Affairs, Jessica made significant contributions by expanding over 20 Telehealth programs. Notably, she played a pivotal role in establishing the first virtual Chemotherap

Jessica Gurley is a dedicated mental health advocate with a rich history in the field.

In 2016, she founded Social Work Consulting and Counseling (SWCC). Jessica and SWCC specialize in delivering therapy, customized trainings, and consulting services that address mental health and social issues.

SWCC extends its expertise to diverse clientele, including students, companies, colleges, and mental health workers. Jessica's clinical background and commitment to the well-being of individuals contribute to a tailored and effective approach in therapeutic interventions.

Moreover, SWCC provides consulting services that extend beyond the traditional therapy setting. By collaborating with organizations and service providers, Jessica offers insights and strategies to address mental health challenges effectively. This inclusive approach reflects SWCC's commitment to contributing to the broader conversation on mental health in various professional settings.

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Advisory Board

Nathaniel Broadus

Nathaniel Broadus is a military veteran with extensive experience in Community relations. He served as a coordinator of the African American Male Mentoring Initiative and managed the Fatherhood program at Healthy Start. Since 2018 he has been the Workforce Specialist at Catalyst Connection assisting to develop new pathways to employment in robotics and advanced manufacturing. Nathaniel is also a Co Founder of Black Packing, a mental health community hiking initiative.

Dr. Toya Jones, University of Pittsburgh

Dr. Toya Jones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the state of Pennsylvania. She is the BASW Program Director at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work She is the founder and president of Freedom Indeed LLC, a community organization that focuses on servicing and empowering ex-offenders and victims of crime. Dr. Jones has extensive experience working with children and families impacted by violence and crime for over twenty years. She provides crisis intervention, counseling, and community education programs that address the causes and impacts of various categories of violence and crime.

Sharnay Hearn Davis, MsED

Sharnay Hearn Davis a dedicated professional, servant leader and founder of Sisters Lifting as We Climb network. As a faithful community advocate and liaison, he has committed her life's work to education, social justice and creating equitable opportunities for all citizens. She has dedicated her professional career to addressing the issues of poverty as a social work professional and public sector leader. She holds a master's degree in Community Leadership from Duquesne University and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education Degree in Educational and Leadership Administration.

Mikea Wall, LCSW

As a native of Pittsburgh, PA, Mikea has always been vested in community work since high school. Due to that passion, her career goals led her to pursue a degree in social work from Clark Atlanta University (BSW) then Rutgers University (MSW). Upon her return to Pittsburgh after post secondary education; Mikea began working on a micro and macro level to provide psychotherapy, increase access and education to resources, and volunteer with community organizations. Now, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; Mikea continues helping those around her through professional works as a community health therapist, provides clinical supervision to LSWs via the University of Pittsburgh, has become aboard member with Melanin Mommies Pgh, and spends time with her 4 year old Pitbull Terrier during her down time.