Birth moms cultivating a culture of
healing & growth for other birth moms
BIG ideas,
REAL impact
The Ampersand Initiative exists to inspire birthmoms to build resilience while holding space for both grief & gratitude
who we are
what we do
Raquel & Leah met through their shared experience as birthmothers on Instagram many years ago, but it was their shared passion for education and advocacy through a lens of empathy and grace that eventually deepened their friendship. After a few shared conferences and a conversation that lasted until 3am, the idea of a nonprofit took root. That sleep deprived conversation around Raquel's kitchen table quickly became an undeniable calling to something bigger!
A traveling, holistic retreat for birth moms to explore new places, build resilience, and experience playful joy in a healthy community
moments and memories
from past events
Consultation Calls & Speaking
Raquel and Leah have a passion for advocacy and education within the adoption community through the lens of compassion.
Whether that is a one-on-one call with a family to learn more about a birth mom perspective, or speaking to a room of 700 at a conference, we shape our messages to be encouraging but always balancing the “ands” in life. Grief & gratitude— the complexities of adoption—are the foundation of who we are at The Ampersand Initiative.
We believe by acknowledging those complexities, we can encourage freedom from shame and build tools for stronger adoption communities.
One gift. A lifetime of impact.
One gift. A lifetime of impact.
Your gift doesn't stop with one birth mom—it ripples through every relationship her life touches. When a birth mom heals, children thrive, families grow stronger, and adoption relationships flourish. Give today and become part of a story that changes generations.