Helping those in need

Together we can make a difference.

Help us to make the “Birth Experience Better” for all people, one family at a time
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Our Mission

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The Doula Lab is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating, advocating for, and empowering all birthing individuals, regardless of race, gender, or financial background. Our mission is to provide comprehensive support through detailed classes on pregnancy, labor, postpartum care, lactation, newborn care, nutrition, CPR, and more, ensuring that the entire support system is included. We aim to fully explain the physical and emotional processes of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, while also addressing potential complications. Additionally, we place a strong emphasis on mental health, recognizing its critical role in maternal well-being.
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Doula Lab Awarded $400,000 Grant to Expand Doula Services in Metro East

We are excited to share that Doula Lab Pregnancy Resource Center has been awarded a $400,000 grant, thanks to the leadership and advocacy of State Senator Christopher Belt. This funding marks a significant step forward in improving maternal health equity and expanding community-based doula services in Belleville and the Metro East region.
With this investment, Doula Lab will:
✔ Train and certify over 20 new doulas to provide critical pregnancy, birth, and postpartum support.
✔ Expand reproductive health education and resources for families.
✔ Enhance access to culturally competent and community-centered maternal care.
Senator Belt has been a champion for maternal and infant health, recognizing the life-changing impact of doulas in reducing health disparities and ensuring individuals receive the support and respect they deserve during pregnancy and childbirth. This grant, awarded through the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Office of Women’s Health & Family Services, will allow us to make meaningful strides in addressing maternal and infant health outcomes in our community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Senator Belt for his dedication to maternal health advocacy and to the Illinois Department of Public Health for investing in our mission. Together, we are building a future where every family has access to the care, education, and support they need to thrive.
Stay connected for updates on our expanded programs and training opportunities!
Read more about this initiative here.
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Doula wins 400k
Doula Lab Wins 400k
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The Doula Lab Awarded $22,000 Grant from the American Heart Association!

We are thrilled to announce that The Doula Lab has been awarded a $22,000 grant from the American Heart Association’s Empowering Missouri Community Impact Grants program! This incredible funding will allow us to expand our efforts in maternal and infant health, equipping doulas with essential skills to better serve families in our community.
With this generous support, we will:
✅ Provide CPR and life-saving emergency training for doulas to improve birth outcomes and infant safety.
✅ Offer educational workshops on cardiovascular health for expectant mothers, helping reduce maternal health disparities.
✅ Enhance our community outreach programs to support families with evidence-based care and resources.
We are deeply grateful to the American Heart Association for recognizing the importance of doulas in improving maternal and infant health outcomes. Together, we are making a difference—one birth, one family, and one community at a time!
Stay tuned for updates as we put this funding to work! 💜 #DoulaLab #AHA #MaternalHealth #CPRTraining #HealthyMomsHealthyBabies
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What About the Fellas? – A Barbershop Series for Black Men’s Wellness

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The Doula Lab in collaboration with Vision Point Grooming and Styles, LLC, A safe, empowering space for Black men to talk, connect, and grow.


Event Description:
💈Welcome to “What About the Fellas?” – a new, healing-centered conversation series designed specifically for Black men of all ages, stages, and walks of life.
Held in the safe and familiar space of a Black-owned barbershop, this two-hour evening gathering provides a space for open conversation, community connection, and brotherhood.
Why Attend?
  • Talk freely among other Black men about life, stress, fatherhood, legacy, and healing.
  • Learn the history of barbershops as pillars of wellness and culture in the Black community.
  • Get practical health education and resources, including how to check your blood pressure at home.
  • Hear from Black male doctors on topics like finding a primary care provider, mental health, and longevity.
  • Enjoy food, giveaways, and powerful storytelling — all in one empowering evening.
What’s Included:
✅ Free blood pressure cuff (sponsored by the American Heart Association)
✅ On-site blood pressure screening and education
✅ Guest talk from a Black male healthcare provider
✅ Food and refreshments
✅ Wellness resource guides & fellowship
Registration Information:
🎟️ This event is FREE, but space is limited to 20 participants to preserve intimacy and safety in conversation.
👉 Advance registration required. No walk-ins.
Participant Requirements:
  • Must identify as a Black man (ages 18+)
  • Must complete pre- and post-event surveys (required for grant funding through the Illinois Department of Public Health)

     
Register Here

🗣️ CHATS FOR CHANGE: Join the Conversation on Maternal Health Equity

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You're invited to an impactful community event hosted by @doulalab and @everthriveil! 💜
🎬 Screening: American Delivery – a powerful documentary on the U.S. maternal health crisis
🎤 Live Panel – featuring doulas, providers, and individuals with lived experience
🧠 Mental Health Matters – learn how to break stigma, recognize postpartum warning signs, and access culturally responsive support
📍 Belleville West High School Cafeteria
📅 Saturday, June 21 | 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
🪑 Space is limited to 60 guests – RSVP today!
This space is especially for:
  • Pregnant people of color, including immigrants & those with diverse cultural experiences
  • Loved ones supporting someone through pregnancy
  • Medical professionals, community organizers & advocates
Let’s raise our voices, share our stories, and build a future with equitable care for all. 💬✨
American Delivery Trailer 
Register Here

Meet Our Team
 

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Charity Bean, CMA, CFSD,CHW,SPM

President/ CEO
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Marvela Ying-Clayburne, BS,CD,CBE

Treasurer/ Co-Facilitator  
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Charisse Montgomery- BS, CHWc, CPRS, LC,CPST,CIMI
Certified Birth Doula & Owner of Black Butterfly Doula

Secretary/ Co-facilitator
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Talia- Nurse/Midwife
Board Member/ Co-facilitator
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Dr. Adriena Beatty, OB/GYN

Board Member/ Co-facilitator
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Kyra L. Betts

Director of Special Projets!

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How You Can Help
 

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Make a Donation

Your donation allows those in need to receive food, clean water, medical care and educational support.  
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Become a Volunteer

Do you have some extra time to spare? If so, we can always use volunteers to participate in our outreach programs and community events.
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Spread the Word

Help us spread the word and educate others about our foundation so we can make a bigger difference.