About Us

Mothers United and Empowered, Inc. was created from a promise — one made in a moment that forever shaped the life and purpose of our President, Dominique Nerestan, LCSW‑R. Early in her career as a young mother working in child protective services, Dominique was assigned to remove a child from her drug‑dependent mother. The image of that child, and the deep pain of a system that often intervenes only after harm has occurred, stayed with her. It sparked a lifelong commitment to support mothers and children before crisis, before separation, and before trauma becomes generational.

That commitment guided Dominique’s entire professional journey. Through years of clinical practice, advocacy, and trauma‑informed work with families, she carried a clear vision: to build a healing‑centered organization that strengthens mothers, protects children, and restores dignity to families navigating adversity.

In 2022, that vision became reality with the establishment of Mothers United and Empowered, Inc. The organization was co‑founded by Johanne Mills, LCSW, whose partnership and dedication helped shape our mission and programs.

Today, Mothers United and Empowered, Inc. stands as a trauma‑informed, community‑driven organization committed to uplifting families through education, clinical services, and holistic support. Our work is guided by lived experience, professional expertise, and an unwavering belief in the power of healing where mothers are truly seen, supported, and empowered.

OUR MISSION STATEMENT:

We support unhoused, first-time expectant single mothers aged 18+ in a supportive environment. We are dedicated to fostering long-term parenting success by offering comprehensive services and referrals.

OUR VALUE STATEMENT:

Our values are grounded in inclusiveness, empowerment, community, respect, and individuality for all of the mothers we serve.

OUR VISION:

We strive to create a nurturing community that uplifts mothers, enabling them to raise confident, healthy, and happy children for a better tomorrow.

Meet Our Board of Directors

Dominique Nerestan, LCSW -r (President)

I have over 20 years of experience in social work, currently running a private practice focused on mothers, children, individuals, and families. As a practitioner, I specialize in evidence-based interventions like Cognitive Behavior Therapy. As the President and initiator of Mothers United and Empowered, Inc., I am deeply dedicated to our mission. I’m thrilled to collaborate with our exceptional team of directors as we strive toward our ultimate goal: opening a maternity home to create a profound, positive impact on the lives of mothers and children.

Michelle Hendrick, LCSW (Vice President of Clinical Services)

I am serving as Vice President of Clinical Services on the Board of Directors for Mother’s United and Empowered, Inc. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 10 years of experience in a medical setting. I currently work as a Palliative Care Social Worker. In my professional role, I have observed the challenges faced by mothers in our healthcare system. I joined the organization because I believe in the mission, and I see the need for such services given the social and economic factors affecting young mothers.

Chillion Anthony Davis, MBA, CPA- (Treasurer)

In my role, I oversee Mothers United and Empowered Inc.'s finance, accounting, and treasury functions by collaborating with the leadership team to drive growth, business performance, and enhance internal controls. As a registered CPA with over 10+ years of experience in financial accounting, internal audit and taxation across multiple sectors, my expertise ensures the organization maintains financial compliance.

Swati Jain - (Associate Treasurer)

As a board member of Mothers United and Empowered Inc., I am committed to empowering first-time expectant mothers experiencing homelessness to reclaim control of their lives. By leveraging my financial expertise, I contribute to the organization's mission through strategic planning, effective resource allocation, and fostering sustainable growth, helping create a foundation for lasting independence for the women we serve.

Ayanna Taffe - (Secretary)

I have been a Certified Medical Assistant for 14 years, managing a pediatric clinic with a team of four for the past 8 years. My clinical duties include measuring vital signs and assisting the pediatrician in patient care. As a mother of three and a Board Member of Mothers United and Empowered Inc., I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to support and empower other mothers.