Her Story
FOUNDATION FOR HER was born from the resilience and determination of one woman who refused to let her circumstances define her future.
At just 17 years old, Stephanie Waites became a mother. Forced to leave school and work full-time to support her newborn son, she faced overwhelming challenges, ones that many young mothers encounter but rarely have the support to navigate. Despite the odds, Stephanie made a bold decision: she would finish high school. Enrolling in a self-paced program, she completed her entire senior year in under two months, all while maintaining a full-time job.
What she lacked in resources, she made up for in drive. But she never forgot how isolating and difficult it was to walk that path alone. Stephanie often wished she had someone to guide her, not just through motherhood, but through education, career decisions, and emotional growth.
Determined to break barriers and create a better life for her son, Stephanie pursued higher education. She went on to earn a double major in sociology and psychology, graduating with a 3.9 GPA. Fueled by her passion to help others like her, she continued her journey and earned an MBA with a concentration in non-profit leadership.
Stephanie’s story is not just one of survival, it’s one of transformation. FOUNDATION FOR HER was created to be the support system she never had, offering mentorship, education, and resources to young mothers and women seeking a better future.
Because no woman should have to face it alone.
This is for strength. This is for hope. This is for HER.