Black Mamas Village -ATX was created in June 2019 by one Black mother who was suffering from isolation and disconnection in one of the fastest growing cities in the country - Austin, Texas.  The organization, which began as a Facebook group, seeks to fill this void for countless other Black mothers challenged daily with the same feelings. Black Mamas Village provides a space for mothers to make meaningful and engaging social, cultural, and economic changes in the city and surrounding areas. Since its inception, the group has grown to support over 3,000 Black mothers due to the investment of time, talent, and treasure of a small group of women leaders. The philosophy of each one, reach one, and teach one has served as the foundation of the “village.” Black Mamas Village is unique in that it includes and welcomes Black mothers of all socioeconomic backgrounds and generations. Specifically, Black mothers in the group range from ages 18-70+ who identify as single, married, pregnant, parenting toddlers to teens, and/or empty nesters. We intentionally invite mothers across the life span to recreate the village and collective community of our ancestors and people of African descent across the globe. We recognize both the strength in diversity of lived experiences and the necessity of healing to maintain that strength. The four organizational pillars: economic empowerment, sisterhood and social, culture and productivity, and community connection serve as guideposts for the work. 

Austin, Texas is the only large city in the country that has been hailed as a booming city yet is home to a declining Black population that is barely above 6%. Due to the steep increases in the cost of living, the city is facing gentrification. Black residents are being displaced and dispersed to the fringes of the Austin area. Black Mamas Village fills a profound gap in the city of Austin, serving as a resource for community foundation and connection.  

There is no one place where Black people can convene and belong in a seemingly beautiful, diverse, and thriving location.  In a few years, our virtual village has transformed into a physical community  - connected through geographical subgroups and intentionally curated initiatives. These initiatives include financial assistance, children’s activities, meal trains, socials, Christmas gift sponsorships for single mothers and children, economic empowerment for members of small businesses, Fall and Spring camping trips, educational workshops, mental health support, and referrals to community resources. Additionally, one of the most impactful aspects of our village is the collective care and mutual aid and giving that transpires to support those in need of support.