A Q&A with Heather Sanford, CEO of Community Mission of Hope - Rancho Damacitas.
Sanford comes to the role with more than two decades as a minister. A single mom herself, she joined the non-profit because she has a special place in her heart for justice.
Q. What is Empowerment Village?
A. “Empowerment Village is one facet of our organization that serves single moms and their kids. We hope to transform these moms’ lives from the moment we meet them until they are launched from our program in two years. We have a 12-acre ranch in wine country with six homes on the property with three families per home.”
Q. What is Your Mission?
A. “Empowerment Village exists to create a safe space where our moms and their kiddos can come in from a place of survival mode and learn the tools we give them to turn into thriving mode. And live their best lives to the fullest.”
Q. How Does it Work?
A. “Our moms pay a $400 monthly fee which includes housing, weekly client advocacy and classes focusing on parenting, financial literacy, career advancement, wellness and leadership. They [also] see an occupational therapist.”
Requirements for Admission
Applicants must be single moms with up to three kids per family, with the eldest child no more than 10 years of age. Moms need to have reliable transportation, children in school and daycare, and be working full time. They must attend weekly class and financial advocacy training. For more information, visit https://cmoh.net/empowerment-village/ or call (951) 444-1404.