The Black Doulas of Columbia Collective is a non-profit organization here to nurture birthing families and center birth workers.
Nurturing Black Families
Our doulas will:
provide services at no cost to our families that qualify for our program
advocate, educate and provide resources needed for each family
support families continuously through pregnancy, birth and postpartum
look and experience life like you (culturally competent)
host and attend community events to provide education and resources
Centering Birth Workers
Our doulas will:
create spaces to connect, collaborate and build community
educate our community and medical providers about the benefits of birth workers
host events and professional development opportunities
amplify the work in the community and seek funding to make the workforce sustainable
mentor, train and meet birth workers needs so they can thrive in our communities
Our Mission
We are dedicated to empowering and uplifting Black families through compassionate, culturally affirming, and holistic doula support. Our mission is to reduce maternal and infant health disparities by providing education, advocacy, and care that honors the unique experiences of Black birthing individuals and their families. We strive to foster a resilient, informed, and supportive community by advocating for equitable access to doula services and perinatal resources. Additionally, we are committed to raising awareness about the accessibility of Black doulas in our city and supporting our community in the fight against maternal health disparities.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every Black birthing person in Columbia and beyond receives the respectful, high-quality care they deserve, resulting in thriving families and healthy communities. By building a network of skilled and empowered doulas, we aim to transform the narrative around Black maternal health, promote body autonomy, and eliminate disparities in birth outcomes. Together, we are cultivating a legacy of strength, resilience, and equitable care for generations to come.
Meet Our Executive Committee
We are the leaders of the Black Doulas of Columbia Collective. We meet regularly to keep the Collective growing and making positive change in our community. We are all practicing doulas with specialties please click the contact button or email info@blackdoulasofcolumbia.org with any specific needs you may have.
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Ebonie Garnett
Childbirth Classes -Birth Doula - Doula Trainer
Ebonie Garnett is a Doula, Trainer and Childbirth Educator in Columbia, SC with her business Born With Purpose Birth Services. She passionately advocates for Black families to receive quality care. She loves teaching through her Childbirth Education class and preparing birthers for labor. She wants families to be confident and empowered through their perinatal journey.
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Lakoia Turner
Birth Doula - Postpartum Doula
Lakoia Turner is a Certified Labor and Postpartum Doula, an Infant Care Specialist, and a Certified Prison Labor Doula in Columbia, SC. Lakoia has a passion for babies, the community, and is an aspiring midwife.
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Karen Nolen
Childbirth Classes - Birth Doula - Postpartum Doula
Karen Nolen is the founder of Earth Body Soul Doula Care, LLC. She is a trained SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Doula, that is trained as a labor and postpartum doula. She is compassionate about educating and empowering mothers to advocate and believe in their bodies, minds and natural mother wit. She upholds the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife. She is a light, big encourager and uplifter in the community of maternal health.