For young girls navigating life without the guidance of their mothers, the path forward can often feel uncertain and isolating. That’s where the Motherless Daughters Foundation, based in Atlanta, becomes a lifeline. More than a nonprofit, it is a sisterhood—one built on love, leadership, and legacy.
Founded in 2012 by Rassalyn Rawls-Uter and a group of compassionate businesswomen in College Park, the foundation was born from a desire to give back what Rassalyn had received from her own grandmothers: unconditional support and guidance.
“I realized my true purpose was to mentor and uplift others,” she shares. “This foundation is my legacy—an extension of the nurturing I was fortunate to receive.” Rassalyn now serves the foundation as the Executive Deputy General Manager.
The foundation provides year-round mentoring, leadership development, and enrichment programs to help young girls discover their worth, cultivate confidence, and prepare for the future. From etiquette workshops to college and career exposure, every experience is designed to help them not only survive adversity—but soar above it.
That mission was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person gatherings came to a halt and many nonprofits paused programming. Motherless Daughters rose to the occasion.
“We couldn’t let a global crisis ground our girls’ potential,” says Uter. The foundation pivoted quickly, hosting a successful virtual gala that raised over $25,000 and ensured programming, support, and mentorship continued—proving that even in a storm, they were still aiming high.
At the Motherless Daughters Foundation, their mission is fueled by a devoted village of board members, volunteers, and supporters. Among them stand seven of Atlanta’s most distinguished women leaders—Dr. Xernona Clayton, Jan Lennon, Mercedes Miller, Danielle Smith, Myrna White, First Mother Sylvia Dickens, and Mayor Angelyne Butler—each of whom graciously lends her time, expertise, and heart to the cause. These women embody strength, purpose, and legacy. Their mentorship and unwavering commitment are instrumental in helping uplift, inspire, and empower the next generation of girls to rise with confidence and soar beyond circumstance.
Dr. Xernona Clayton encourages every girl to embrace her power, saying, “If you think you can, you will.”
Jan Lennon, Interim GM of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, adds, “I show up unapologetically and remind young people they already belong. Leadership is measured by the legacy you build in others.”
Mercedes Miller believes in visibility and voice. “We owe it to the next generation to lead boldly, foster confidence, and create spaces where women are heard and valued.”
Danielle Smith reflects, “Your past doesn’t define you—your vision does. I want young women to know they can overcome anything and create lasting change.”
Myrna White offers, “You never know who’s watching. Carry yourself with grace—someone may be drawing strength from your example.”
First Mother Sylvia Dickens reminds us, “You will make mistakes in life, but don’t let that stop your passion. Keep moving forward with determination and perseverance.”
And Mayor Angelyne Butler declares, “God makes no mistakes, and I am enough,” while championing women breaking barriers in male-dominated fields like politics, aviation, and economic development.
In 2022, the foundation launched its Youth in Aviation (Y.I.A.) program, expanding to include boys ages 12–18. Led by Aviation Director Everton Uter, the program is hosted at the world’s busiest airport and introduces youth to aviation careers—culminating in a free discovery flight. With the theme Elevation, the foundation is quite literally helping dreams take flight.
With chapters in Fulton and Clayton counties and a growing global reach, the Motherless Daughters Foundation isn’t just building leaders—they’re helping youth aim higher, dream bigger, and soar farther than they ever thought possible.
Never forget: Uplifted girls become unstoppable women.
For more information about Motherless Daughters Foundation, visit MotherlessDaughtersFoundation.org or Motherless Daughters Foundation on Facebook or Instagram.
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Photos by PrimePhocus and Donna Permell