The Angel FoundationFounder/Director
Feb. 1998 - Sep. 2003As a therapist, I wanted to find ways to reach parents and teens BEFORE their breaking point so I built a non-profit - The Angel Foundation - to empower individuals and families to overcome challenges & thrive. The program had 3 wings. Mothers’ Empowerment Initiative: Through my flagship program, I provided mothers struggling with stress & overwhelm a positive, structured environment to reconnect, share insights, & learn effective parenting & coping strategies. Collaborating with leading parenting experts, therapists, & educators, I facilitated comprehensive workshops that equipped participants with practical tools to improve family dynamics, enhance personal well-being, & achieve long-term stability. Participants reported significant reductions in stress, increased confidence, & improved relationships with their children. Family Reconciliation Program: In partnership with local agencies, I co-created an innovative program to support pregnant teens & their mothers, particularly those with fractured or high-conflict relationships. Leveraging therapeutic techniques such as somatic experiencing & family systems therapy, we helped families rebuild trust, & strengthen communication. Graduates of the program reported stronger family ties, feeling more supported, & making positive life changes. Youth Mentoring and Support: Following the Columbine High School tragedy, I established Project Listen, a mentoring center dedicated to providing a safe space for adolescents to connect with mentors, express themselves, & receive academic support. Under my leadership, Project Listen attracted highly skilled volunteers resulting in a high-impact mentoring program that significantly improved students' emotional resilience, academic performance, & sense of community. I was recognized with a variety of awards for this work - including the 7 Everyday Hero Award. But I feel most honored & grateful that these programs have been used as a template to help families around the world.