Trudean Haye‘s personal experience with poverty ultimately inspired her to launch her non-profit organization, It Takes A Village (later renamed ITAVFoundation).
According to the philanthropist, she was faced with homelessness, period poverty, and a lack of essential resources like school supplies and clothing in her teens. As an immigrant from Jamaica, these challenges were even more distressing.
“During that time, I didn’t know of any resources available to me,” Haye tells BrownStyle Magazine exclusively. “Even my school had no idea where to turn for help.”
Making A Difference With The Launch Of The ITAVFoundation
Determined to fill this gap, Haye founded the ITAVFoundation as a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to making a difference in the inner-city community of Philadelphia and the country of Jamaica.
“ITAVFoundation embodies the spirit that it truly takes a village to build a better future,” she explains, noting her community-based upbringing in Jamaica served as a blueprint for the movement.
The ITAVFoundation has successfully partnered with countless notable organizations to serve underserved communities and increase access to quality education.
“Whether it’s mentoring youths, talking to grandparents, or engaging in conversations on how we can better help, the work is so rewarding,” she shares, adding the relationships and bonds she’s formed through her work continue to drive her passion and dedication.
Maternal Support And Education Day
On July 20, ITAVFoundation will have its upcoming Maternal Support and Education Day at the MQ Factory – Ricky Codio Studio in Manayunk, PA.
The free event will provide comprehensive support, education, and resources to expectant and new parents, with a focus on teen, immigrant, LGBTIQA+, and Black maternal wellness.
Feedback from past events has been overwhelmingly positive.
In fact, through the generous contributions of donors and volunteers, the ITAVFoundation has made a significant impact on the lives of pregnant and postpartum individuals in underserved communities. This includes collecting over 15,000 baby items, including clothes, diapers, wipes, and postpartum care packages.
“Being able to connect the community to valuable resources and provide them with support to address their basic needs has been incredibly impactful,” Haye proclaims.
Moving Forward In Love & Unity
Looking ahead, Haye envisions significant expansion for the ITAVFoundation— especially in Jamaica, where healthcare and educational support are desperately needed.
She also aims to create opportunities for kids from Philadelphia to travel abroad, broadening their horizons and exposing them to different cultures. “The world is such a big place, and I believe that if more kids have the opportunity to travel, it will help them immensely,” she explains.
Through her journey and dedicated leadership, Haye continues to empower communities and create positive impacts. Her vision and commitment alone make her worthy of our love and support.
BrownStyle Magazine is a proud media sponsor of the ITAVFoundation Maternal Support & Education Day 2024. If you would like to attend this amazing event, be sure to click here to get your free tickets!
