ConnectHerwebsite

ConnectHer

Supporting at-risk youth and women of color who have experienced trauma connected to violence and/or abuse.

We are proud to present our nonprofit:

"ConnectHer" Our mission is to support at-risk youth and women of color who have experienced trauma connected to violence and/or abuse. We support these ladies by creating a safe, prosocial, and enriching environment that ensures they receive the appropriate services and support needed to build a better future for themselves. In addition we provide them with networks of supportive adults, opportunities for connectedness, and mentorship!

MEET THE FOUNDERS

Ericka Elliott & Quaness Jackson

Ericka Elliott, is a proud mommy of two amazing kiddos and a fierce advocate for children and families. With over 16 years of experience in this field, I've dedicated my life to making a difference in the lives of others. Originally hailing from Detroit, MI, I was surrounded by a community that instilled in me the values of compassion, resilience, and service. From doctors to teachers to mentors, I was fortunate to have role models who looked like me and showed me the power of lifting others up. My journey to social service was born out of a deep-seated passion to create positive change and empower marginalized communities, especially women and children of color. Witnessing the challenges and injustices faced by these individuals fueled my determination to make a difference in their lives. That's why I decided to take the leap and start my own venture, driven by the desire to provide a safe haven for young women where they can feel seen, heard, and valued. I believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive, and I'm committed to creating spaces where they can flourish. So, here I am, pouring my heart and soul into this work every single day. It's not just a job for me; it's a calling, a mission, a way of life. And I wouldn't have it any other way. Join me on this journey as we strive to uplift and empower women and children of color, one life-changing moment at a time.

Quaness Jackson, graduated from Portland State University in 2021 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology along with a minor in Child Family studies. Attending school has provided me with a great deal of knowledge on how to adequately work with youth. I have a true passion for working and helping each youth progress in all areas of their development—physical, emotional, social, and intellectual—which is a challenge that I am honored to accept daily. I strive to create a community of youth that nurtures this growth. Sometimes we fall down because there is something down there that we’re supposed to find. I spent eighteen years in the foster care system, which I can now say, shaped me into the person I am today. I faced a lot of adversity but met a lot of amazing people along the way. Without those supportive adults in my life, I would have just been a case number, a file, a statistic. Thankfully they saw my potential and guided me to my purpose long before I knew I had one. I am so passionate about the work that I do because I have first-hand experience with what these youth are going through, and I want them to know that they are seen, they are heard, and they are supported.

What we do

Self-sufficiency referrals

Job Skill Training

Basic need resources

Wrap-around services for all that have been impacted

Outreach & Mentorship

Social Events for Awareness

Partnering w/ mental health professionals

Violence Prevention

ASP CLASS

A 10-week program where we work with middle school girls in the Portland area to build healthy relationships with women, give a safe space for conversation, and so much more.