Who we are
A movement working to close quality of life gaps in Chicago by reshaping perceptions and policies to increase equitable, patient-centred healthcare and healing justice.
Why NDoula?
2x
The maternal mortality rate in the U.S. is 2x higher than in Canada.
3x
In the U.S., Black women are 3x more likely to die from pregnancy related causes than white women.
6x
In Chicago, Black women face 6x the risk compared to white women.
80%
In the U.S, more than 80% of maternal deaths are preventable.
The USA is facing a reproductive health crisis. This crisis is worsened by systemic inequities including limited access to mental health care for Black adults, few options for naturopathic and holistic care in Illinois, and systems that don’t center patient voices, intuition, or lived experiences. These gaps have long-lasting effects on health, family planning, and quality of life.
Our commitment
Birth should not be a source of fear. NDoula is working with communities to change this.
We stand for the protection, safety, autonomy, and satisfaction of Black perinatal people and all vulnerable patients.
Through patient-centered care, advocacy, and systemic change, we are helping write a different story for Chicago - one rooted in healing, safety, and justice.
Our mission
NDoula Community Alliance is a movement building organization addressing quality of life gaps within Chicago communities by influencing perceptions and policy to increase access to patient-centered, equitable, integrative healthcare & healing justice. We serve those hardest hit by the Black Maternal Health Crisis, including community care workers.

We approach health literacy with a specifically inclusive, trauma informed, and violence prevention lens. NDoula works to build a Chicago where all patients and birthing people benefit from informed decision making among a culturally reflective care team.

We highlight social, healing, and reproductive justice by addressing access to and creating unique wrap-around resources that aim to strengthen networks of support.

NDoula’s many projects seek to lift the lives and experiences of marginalized groups to center our happiness, autonomy, and joy.
The team
Our team has an intimate knowledge of holistic & integrative care, abolitionism in healthcare, patient advocacy, home visiting, and community participatory engagement. We are keenly aware of the barriers to access that our communities face. This perspective catalyzes our innovative and sustainable approach.
Our Ndoula Leadership is made up completely of volunteers. Combined, our Board of Directors and Executive Staff are currently 100% women, 100% healthcare and/or social service workers, and 67% Black.
Our impact
The NDoula Mentorship community partners with people 18 years and over that identify as being part of a marginalized community or are working in healthcare or birthwork to provide culturally reflective, long term, and reliable relationships. Currently, 73% of our mentees identify as Black, and 16% Latine. Mentees direct their goal setting, while mentors help strategize means to accomplish them.
We apprentice/train mentees who are interested in becoming mentors, and provide referrals for those requiring other culturally reflective mentors.
Our core values
Health equity
We work to ensure everyone has fair access to quality healthcare.
Healing justice
We support healing by addressing trauma and creating safe spaces.
Cultural inclusivity
We honor and reflect diverse cultures in all aspects of care.
Community empowerment
We help build strong support networks where every voice is valued.
Patient-centered care
We put you at the center of decisions about your health and wellbeing.
Women-led leadership
We are led by women committed to advocating for marginalized groups.
Join us
Our work is powered by passionate people like you. Whether you want to lend your expertise as a board member or support directly through our programs, there’s a meaningful role waiting for you.