ABOUT
The Glow Forward Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young and single mothers in Baltimore by providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed in their educational and professional journeys. We offer a range of programs that focus on reducing financial barriers, promoting academic equity, and fostering long-term economic independence for both mothers and their children. By addressing the unique challenges faced by young and single mothers, we aim to create sustainable, positive change.
OUR MISSION
To ensure each young and single mom is provided with the opportunity, resources, and wrap-around support services to achieve her own level of success; by supporting her individually and empowering her to empower herself.
OUR VISION
To be a catalyst at driving change and shifting the narrative associated with the culture of young and single moms.
OUR VALUES
We are guided by compassion, resilience, and equity. We are dedicated to empowering young and single mothers by providing support, overcoming challenges, and ensuring equal opportunities for success. Through these values, we foster positive, lasting change for both mothers and their families.
OUR FOUNDER
Loren Nelson
"At 17, I became a young mom - right after high school and just before college. This journey meant putting my dreams on hold, and making sacrifices to care for my son, while also navigating life as a young and single mom. I'm passionate about sharing my experiences, advocating for other single moms, and demonstrating that parenthood transcends age and relationship status. Past circumstances and struggles have taught me that obstacles are just opportunities for learning experiences; designed to not only overcome them, but to also help the next mom to do the same. Empowered by my own experiences, I've developed The Glow Forward Foundation with a mission close to my heart: To build the supportive community I wished for during those challenging times."
- Loren N.
OUR TEAM
Our Board of Directors is a dedicated and experienced group of professionals who share a deep personal and professional commitment to the mission of empowering young and single mothers. Many of our board members are single mothers themselves, were raised by single mothers, or have close ties to the experiences we aim to uplift. Our board represents a diverse range of expertise across key sectors, including social work, nonprofit leadership, business, education, and public service. Among them are a Senior Project Manager with an MBA specializing in Finance and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; an Associate Professor and Executive Director of Health & Human Services with a PhD and LCPC; and a Juris Doctor Candidate with extensive experience in higher education financial aid, currently serving at the Baltimore City Health Department.
The board also includes a Program Compliance Officer who leads youth and workforce engagement initiatives specifically designed for underserved populations through City of Baltimore apprenticeships and internships. Additional board members include a Consulting Firm Administrator providing strategic direction, and a realtor with a background in facilities management and human resources. Together, this accomplished team brings the knowledge, leadership, and lived experience necessary to guide The Glow Forward Foundation’s strategic vision, ensuring our programs are effective, sustainable, and impactful for the communities we serve.
