Meleah Drews is a Board Member and Co-Founder of Children Rising, where she has served for 23 years. A dedicated foster and adoptive parent, Meleah also brings her expertise as a Registered Nurse to her work with the organization. Her passion for supporting children and families has been a driving force in her long-standing commitment to Children Rising.
Powertalk
What led you to join Children Rising?
Children Rising was co-founded by me and my husband Jim. As a foster and adoptive parent I recognized the tremendous need in the community for safe, loving, supportive environments for children. I also recognized that my ability to be that resource is limited to just a few children. In order to really effect change, young parents would need to be supported in learning parenting and communication skills that promote healthy, compassionate, well-developed children.
What is your primary role at Children Rising?
My primary role at Children Rising is as a member of the Board of Directors. I attend all board meetings and carry out various tasks to promote the growth of the organization.
What do you find most rewarding about your work here?
I find it rewarding to see the organization grow and develop. What was once just an idea bounced around between me and my husband is now a non-profit organization poised to aid and support children and families.
What skills or unique perspectives do you bring to the team?
The perspective I bring to the team is one of an adoptive and foster parent familiar with the challenges of working with various service agencies and the tenacity and determination it takes to move through some barriers. In addition, as a nurse, one of my roles is that of patient advocate, which can easily be adapted and applied as a parent advocate.
How do you align with the organization’s vision and mission?
As co-founder of Children Rising, I am close to the organization’s vision and mission. I believe that when people work together to help each other succeed, the impact is greater than individual efforts.
What inspires you about working with single mothers and their children?
I’m inspired to work with mothers and children because I believe the early years in a child’s life have the greatest influence in developing personal attachments and overall well-being. I also enjoy seeing young mothers learn to listen to their intuition, gain confidence in new skills, and to support others in improving their lives.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned from working with the community?
One lesson I’ve learned from working with the community is how vast the needs are. As a nurse I see people of all ages and walks of life who find themselves in vulnerable situations and in need of help. I believe by working with young mothers and children, we can give families a healthy start that will impact the greater community.
What’s a challenge you’ve faced in your role, and how did you overcome it?
One of the challenges I faced early on as co-founder of Children Rising was balancing my time between creating a nonprofit organization, my role as a mother and wife, work, and full-time nursing student. I devoted my time and attention to these other priorities for the last several years, and now I believe the time is right to put my energy towards manifesting the vision of Children Rising.
How do you see Children Rising impacting families in the long term?
I see Children Rising educating and supporting children and families and building strong communities. Giving parents the tools and support to raise healthy, well-balanced, compassionate children will have a direct impact on the larger community and it’s resources.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone wanting to make a difference in this field?
If someone wants to make a difference in the lives of children and families, I would advise them to reach out to us. There are so many ways to get involved. We would love to hear ways you’d like to contribute to this rewarding mission.
If you could describe Children Rising in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?
I would describe Children Rising as “Helping Hands”. In life there are times when we need to reach for a helping hand, and others when we can offer a helping hand. Together we are stronger.
Fun Facts
Some interesting & fun facts about Meleah Drews.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
After a busy day, I enjoy reading, sewing quilts, and spending time with family.
Do you have a favorite quote or mantra that keeps you motivated?
I don’t refer to a quote or mantra but there’s a question I come back to often. I ask myself “How then shall I live?” It reminds me to live with love and purpose.
What’s one book, podcast, or resource you’d recommend to others?
Daring Greatly by Brene Brown. She also has several videos and podcasts that can be found.
If you could have dinner with anyone (living or historical), who would it be and why?
I would enjoy meeting and having a conversation with Eleanor Roosevelt. She was a woman who faced many adversities and continued to help others through her political influence, activism and dedication to Human Rights.