About Y.E.M.A.Y.A House Organization
Our Mission
Mission Statement
At Yemaya House Organization, our mission is to empower and uplift Foster Youth in Transition (FYIT) and women within our community by fostering a nurturing, supportive, and empowering environment where they can thrive. Inspired by Yemaya, the Yoruba goddess revered for her nurturing, protective, and motherly attributes, we embody her spirit through our unwavering commitment to caring for and guiding those we serve, much like Yemaya herself cares for her children.
Our programs are designed with the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, and support to heal and flourish. Through a holistic, service-based approach, we provide essential resources and opportunities that integrate our youth and women into the economic and community ecosystem, ensuring they are not only participants but vital contributors to a brighter future for all.
Our comprehensive support system includes:
- Yemaya Ride LLC: Providing community transportation services, ensuring reliable access to work, school, and essential appointments.
At Yemaya House, we provide furnished housing for FYIT along with work opportunities within our enterprises, creating a work-live model that promotes responsibility, skill development, and financial independence. Additionally, our programs for young mothers offer crucial support such as CPR and basic life support training, breastfeeding guidance, and parenting skills, alongside emotional, mental, and financial assistance.
We are deeply committed to the success and advancement of our youth and the vulnerable, believing that by prioritizing their well-being, we contribute to the creation of a stronger, more resilient community. Through healing, nurturing, and empowering our youth first, we foster a future where they become resilient, self-sufficient, and compassionate members of society.
At Yemaya House, we are more than a support system; we are a family dedicated to building a better tomorrow through love, care, and community.
Our Programs
Personal Development, Educational/Career Exploration, and NurtureLink—and how they form the cornerstone of our offerings to our young adults, whom we lovingly refer to as our "adult kids":
Personal Development Program : At YEMAYA House, our Personal Development Program is the bedrock of our approach. We focus on empowering our adult kids by nurturing their personal growth, self-awareness, and emotional resilience. Through workshops, counseling sessions, and one-on-one mentoring, we assist them in developing crucial life skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, stress management, and decision-making. We believe that fostering their personal development is key to building confidence and enabling them to navigate life's challenges successfully.
Educational/Career Exploration: Our Educational/Career Exploration Program aims to guide our adult kids in discovering their passions, strengths, and aspirations. We provide support in educational pursuits, offering assistance with GED programs, vocational training, college applications, and scholarships. Additionally, we facilitate career exploration through internships, job shadowing, and mentorship opportunities. By helping them explore diverse educational paths and career options, we empower them to set and achieve meaningful goals, ensuring a brighter future.
NurtureLink: NurtureLink stands as a pivotal program within YEMAYA House, offering comprehensive support to our young mothers, providing personalized guidance in parenting skills, emotional support, access to healthcare services, and a nurturing environment for both mother and child. This program emphasizes holistic support for these young moms, aiding them in their journey towards effective child-rearing, postpartum care, and fostering a supportive community through regular meetings and peer support groups.
These three core programs—Personal Development, Educational/Career Exploration, and NurtureLink—are not just services; they embody the essence of our commitment to our adult kids. We provide them with the necessary tools, guidance, and support to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Meet The Founder
Jeanetta Fitzgerald - A Visionary with a Heart for Community
Jeanetta Fitzgerald, a devoted wife, mother, and self-proclaimed "Black Edna Garrett," has always been passionate about nurturing and community building. Growing up in Detroit, Jeanetta found inspiration in the beloved TV show Facts of Life, where she saw herself in Edna Garrett, the wise and caring housemother who guided young girls through life’s challenges. This early influence planted the seed for what would become Jeanetta's lifelong commitment to advocating for children, youth, and women in her community.
A Personal Calling to Empower and Protect
Jeanetta has always felt a deep, personal calling to uplift her community. She believes that by raising up our youth, women, and children, we can create a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Her approach is guided by the philosophy "Each One, Teach One," a belief that knowledge, support, and empowerment should be shared to build a stronger, more resilient community.
From Hustle to Mission-Based Leadership
Jeanetta’s entrepreneurial journey is fueled by her passion and purpose. She is self-taught, purpose-driven, and committed to making a difference. This led her to establish Yemaya House Organization, where she combines her drive with her desire to create meaningful change. Through Yemaya House, Jeanetta is not only providing essential services to those in need but also creating opportunities for empowerment, education, and economic growth.
A Legacy of Community Building
Jeanetta’s work is a testament to her belief that true community building begins with protecting and nurturing the most vulnerable among us. Her mission is clear: to create a supportive environment where young adults can thrive, grow, and contribute to a better society. By channeling her Detroit hustle into a mission-based initiative, Jeanetta is leading the charge in making meaningful change, one life at a time.
Join Us in This Journey
Under Jeanetta’s leadership, Yemaya House Organization is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a movement dedicated to lifting up those who need it most. We invite you to join us in this journey, whether through support, partnership, or simply sharing our mission. Together, we can continue to build the strong, caring community that Jeanetta has always envisioned.
Help us, help them.
Help Us Help Them: Your donation to YEMAYA House provides a hand up for foster youth, veterans, and new Americans. Support education, housing, and empowerment. As a 501(c)(3), your contribution is a tax deduction. Make a lasting impact today!"