MADISON, Wis. — A Madison nonprofit is preparing for an advocacy and support services event this Saturday.
The Foundation for Black Women's Wellness aims to provide resources, create lasting change and improve the health outcomes for Black women. The nonprofit also focuses the well-being of Black mothers and their babies.
Micaela Berry-Smith, a mother and doula, said she believes that her work is essential for ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.
"It is a labor of love. It’s a passion and it’s to ensure that the next generations have better outcomes and different data than what we've seen in the past," Berry-Smith said.
Berry-Smith, who serves as the foundation’s program manager of child health initiatives, highlighted Wisconsin’s Black maternal and infant mortality rates, which remain among the highest in the country.
"It’s a sobering fact. But you have to move past that and say, ‘How are we going to change it? What can we make better with our control and our scope of work?'” she said.
The foundation’s efforts include taking a holistic approach to support Black women and their families at every stage of life. Exercise programs are just one element of that.
Gabe Doyle, who serves as the chief wellness officer for the Foundation for Black Women's Wellness, emphasized the importance of systemic change.
"We’re trying not only to change the systems in which Black women and their families operate, but we’re also trying to empower them with the right set of tools to lead their own health and well-being journey,” he said.
Doyle expressed excitement about the topics that will be addressed at the upcoming 16th Annual Black Women’s Wellness Day, which will be held at Monona Terrace on Saturday, Sept. 28. The event will cover issues such as economic stability, financial education and wealth management, as well as learning about Black history and securing a better future.
Lisa Peyton-Caire, the founder of the Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness, stressed the importance of focusing on Black women and their futures.
"We know that when we invest in Black women, when we equip them with what they need to live their healthiest life, it has an immediate ripple effect on their entire family system," Peyton-Caire said.
The foundation’s vision is not just about improving pregnancy outcomes, but about addressing the broader disparities Black women face.
The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness expects at least 1,000 participants at Saturday’s event at Monona Terrace. Those interested in attending can find more information, here.
Correction: A previous version of this article misspelled Gabe Doyle's name. This has been corrected. (Sept. 26, 2024)