Today we’d like to introduce you to Bre Islar.
Bre, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
“When God Blesses You, You Bless Someone Else!” I’m a product of a single parent household. My mother raised my younger sister and I by herself. Growing up, we saw her help countless families. She raised us to be a blessing to others in need; it just so happened that the people we helped most frequently were single mothers who were doing their best to provide for their children but just needed a helping hand.
Before having children of my own, I was honored to serve as an elementary school teacher in Southeast, Washington D.C. Several of my students were being raised in single-parent homes and I immediately jumped in to assist them in any way that I could, both inside and outside of the classroom. I never wanted their mothers to feel that I thought less of them rather that I admired them so much for their bravery and strength and just wanted to help! So after years of serving my community and becoming a mother, ABC Angels Network was born. (ABC, which stands for the first names of my Husband, Anthony, myself- Bre, and our children, Camryn and Carter)
My plan to start this organization many years ago got sidetracked when my family and I moved to Texas in 2016. Since moving here, our family has grown and my desire to continue to be a meaningful part of a community has grown as well! I want women to know that I believe in them, that being a single mother doesn’t mean “the end”, and that with God, all things are possible. As a teacher, my philosophy was, “Every child CAN LEARN,” As a mother my belief is that “Every mother deserves the ability to provide for her children and that every child deserves the best!”
We still have a long road ahead of us as we work to attain our 501c3, tax exempt status but we’re ready and excited about the endless possibilities to provide family support services, mentorship, and assistance to the mothers and children of Denton and Collin Counties, here in Texas. We’re currently seeking partnerships with other nonprofit organizations that are passionate about being of service to women and children.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Customarily, starting a nonprofit organization has its difficulties because the greatest need is finance based, our needs are no different. While there is also a learning curve for me as I build this organization, it’s also been quite empowering to “learn as I go.” We are constantly being approached by women in need of our services that we are currently unable to provide at this time, due to lack of funding. However, we look forward to being able to step in and help as many mothers and children as we possibly can really soon!
I wouldn’t say this journey has been smooth however it definitely could’ve been a lot worse. I’m an entrepreneur, a wife, and a mom so that juggle is never an easy one! I know that a lot of people are interested in doing what I’m seeking to do so I’ve tried to record much of this journey to share on my family’s YouTube channel, BreezynFamTV. I love that outlet because it shows a different side of me, the more practical side where I can TOTALLY relate to women, especially mothers. Finding that balance between work and home life is tough for me, on a personal level.
Please tell us about ABC Angels Network.
ABC Angels Network was designed to help mothers and their children. Our passion is primarily for the children. We want to inspire them and empower their moms. I realize that everything I have today could be gone in an instant and I’d hope that people would help me the same way that I want my nonprofit to step in and help mothers. Our organization seeks to provide integral, humane assistance to women who are already actively providing for their families. We want to help those who want to help themselves and are open to being accountable.
The greatest part about starting a nonprofit is that our goal is not to compete with other organizations. Our goal is to collaborate and help other organizations. Our number one priority is the children! However, we can support these families we want in! 🙂
If you are interested in becoming a part of the ABC Angels Network family and assist with upcoming community events and projects, please contact us soon!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’d say that my number one cheerleader in this process has been my Husband. He’s listened to me ramble on and on about what I’ve learned throughout this process and encouraged me along the way! It was actually his urging to start ABC Angels Network that started this entire journey! Looking into the eyes of our little girls has definitely kept me going through those late nights and early mornings too!
I’d be lost without the love and support that we’ve received. My amazingly talented cousin, Kimille Felder has been an invaluable cheerleader and support system from the start, in lieu of her own business projects. My sister, Lawuan and business partner Claire Ozah have been excited and helpful support to me as well. I’m grateful to my family, friends near and far, and perfect strangers who’ve supported this organization. We’re only in the early phases of our launch and already have had so much positive feedback. I’m truly humbled…
Contact Info:
- Website: http://abcangelsnetwork.org/
- Email: ABCAngelsNetwork@gmail.com
- Instagram: @abcangelsnetwork
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/abcangelsnetwork/posts/?ref=page_internal
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