Founders
“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much”
– Helen Keller
Tay Ford
Tay Ford grew up in Detroit, Michigan. From childhood into her twenties, she has always seen the best in people and wanted to advocate for social equality. After having her son during her undergraduate program at Michigan State University she realized the importance of being a role model for him. She believes that being a parent is one of the most important and influential responsibilities on this earth.
She is determined to help others know they do not have to go through the journey of parenthood alone. Tay’s mission is to assist parents in having a safe, understanding, and informed village of support. It is her vision to connect parents to the support and resources needed to lead a sustainable life for their families. Tay is currently pursuing her Counseling degree at Central Michigan University, where she aspires to be a licensed mental health therapist and advocate.
Lauren Griffin
Lauren Griffin grew up Detroit, MI. She is a wife and mother of three but also an advocate for youth in the Metro Detroit School system. As an educator, Lauren knew early on the importance of education and connecting with youth in ways to develop their learning and social skills. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from The University of Michigan-Dearborn.
She has worked in the education field for over 8 years as a substitute, girls’ basketball coach, an elementary and middle school teacher. She currently is the Dean of Culture for K – 4th at a charter school in Detroit. Seeing the day to day struggles in the classroom, her passion for helping and giving back to youth gave birth to U.N.I.T.Y- Understanding the Needs and Issues of Today's Youth. Her hope is to assist youth in seeing a sense of worth and value in the community and themselves as the next generation of leaders.
Keontay Carter
Keontay M. Carter was born and raised in the city of Detroit where she faced many struggles, such as bullying, abuse, self-esteem issues, etc. She graduated from Denby High School located on the east side of Detroit where she thrived and excelled academically. She continues to advocate and inspire all through her entrepreneurship and active participation in a semi-pro women’s football league.
Carter's focus is to earn her degree in Public Health that will allow her to continue the support of individuals in the community. She believes that we all have the responsibility to positively impact, and attribute to the city of Detroit, especially within the neighborhoods. Keontay’s mission is to help beautify, and bridge the gaps in the village of our neighborhoods. She is motivated, determined, excited, unstoppable, and ambitious about what we can do together.