Meet A Young Mother’s D.R.E.A.M.! This amazing organization assists young/teen mother’s ages 16-23 in completing their education through a one-on-one mentorship program. By instilling determination. resilience, and excellence as core characteristics, founder Geneva Farrow is making sure that young mother’s dreams are still accomplished with their bundle of joy right beside them!

Website: http://www.youngmothersdream.org

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Why was this organization started?

Young mothers receive so many negative messages about who they are and who they will become now that they are parents. Messages like “Your life is over,” “Your dreams take a backseat now that you are a parent.” A Young Mother’s D.R.E.A.M. was started to help encourage young mothers to complete their education. To provide them with support from mentors who have experienced their journey as teen parents. By completing their education they are actually in a better position to provide their child/ren with opportunities that would not necessarily be available to them. We encourage them to “Defy the Odds.”

Young mothers in the YMD program.

Why is completing the education process so important to young mothers?

Statistics show that without a college education you earn less money. Statistics also show that many young mothers are living in poverty and the future success of their children is in jeopardy, but for young mothers who pursue higher education their future is brighter. Opportunities to earn more and provide more for their children. I recently heard someone say “Make a choice that will give you more choices.” Education provides young mothers with more choices.

If time and money weren’t issues, what direction would you like to see A Young Mother’s D.R.E.A.M. head in?

A Young Mother’s D.R.E.A.M. currently provides mentoring, workshops and scholarships for teen moms. We’d like to see YMD expand offerings to ease the burdens that teen moms face when pursuing their education including childcare and financial obstacles. YMD would like to provide connections for teen moms to colleges, internships and career opportunities. The goal is to see as many teen moms “Defy the Odds” as possible.

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Today we salute the A Young Mother’s D.R.E.A.M. team! Someone has to take care of our young mothers and help guide them to be the best parents they can be! Go YMD!

Keep up with A Young Mother’s Dream and get involved by following them on Twitter & Facebook!