Mission: The Black Doulas of Columbia Collective is 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.

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.

Purpose

The purpose of this agreement is to establish shared expectations and responsibilities for participation in The Black Doulas of Columbia Collective, a community of doulas committed to supporting individuals and families through birth, postpartum, and/or reproductive transitions with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

Membership Benefits

• You will be listed on our birth worker directory on our website as a contact for potential clients. The directory will include your picture, name, contact link/email.**

• We will post your directory information and a short bio on our facebook and instagram pages.

• Access to exclusive monthly member support programming.

• Access to group chats, and free continuing education classes 

• Free BDOC badge.

Membership Requirements

• Be a BIPOC birth worker (in-training, trained or certified).

• Serve in Columbia and/ surrounding counties. 

• Participate in at least two community events per year representing BDOC.

• Participate in Empowering to Bloom & Columbia Black Maternal Health Week Events

• Attend at least four membership meetings annually

• Complete monthly doula and birth reports.

• Pay $20 registration fee and $10 monthly membership dues.

Membership Fees

The fees for membership is $20 initial fee and $10/month. Fees are due upon the signing of this agreement. Monthly fees will need to be paid on the first of each month preceding the initial payment. Failure to provide fees will result in a loss of membership and its benefits. All fees are nonrefundable. 

Membership Conduct

• Members uphold the values, mission, and code of conduct of the Collective

• Members are ethical and professional birth workers. 

• Members are to conduct business in a professional way (in clients’ presence) and while representing BDOC. 

• Members communicate respectfully and maintain client and member confidentiality

• Members provide evidence-based training so clients’ can make their own informed decisions.

• Members conduct business within their scope of practice. 

• Members are HIPPA compliant 

Termination of Membership

Membership may be suspended or revoked if the Member:

• Violates the code of conduct or collective policies

• Fails to meet membership responsibilities

• Engages in unethical or harmful behavior

• Requests to withdraw in writing

**BDOC does not guarantee any business outcomes and is not liable for any incidents. I have read this letter describing the BDOC membership and agree to the terms and conditions.

This agreement remains in effect for the duration of the Member’s participation and is subject to annual review and renewal.