Meet Chanda Ahern | Founder-MPH

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chanda Ahern and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chanda, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

When I became a mother, I was overwhelmed by the immense joy and the significant challenges that came with caring for a newborn. The experience opened my eyes to the crucial needs of new parents, especially those facing financial and social hardships. I realized that many families lacked access to basic necessities and support systems, which are vital for the well-being of both the mother and the child. This personal insight fueled my passion to create a support network for families in similar situations.
With my personal experience as a mother and my professional expertise in public health, I was driven to create a solution that would address the critical needs of new parents in our community. This led to the founding of Mommy’s Helper, a non-profit organization that focuses on providing essential items and resources to families with newborns

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey in the public health sector spans over a decade, and it has been both rewarding and challenging. With a Master of Public Health, I have dedicated my career to understanding and addressing the health needs of communities, particularly those that are underserved. My extensive experience has largely involved collaborating with nonprofit organizations, which has given me firsthand insight into the significant gaps in services available to vulnerable populations.

Reaching where I am today has not been easy. The path was fraught with obstacles, from navigating limited resources to tackling the deep-rooted systemic issues that hinder access to quality health care. However, each challenge presented an opportunity for growth and innovation. Overcoming these challenges required persistence, strategic collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to the mission of improving health outcomes for all.

Our current goal is to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, including other nonprofit organizations, local governments, and community leaders, was crucial. These partnerships enabled us to pool resources, share knowledge, and implement more comprehensive and effective health initiatives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re visiting Grand Rapids, you can’t miss Tupelo Honey! It’s a fantastic restaurant with a great vibe and delicious Southern-inspired food. My family also loves spending time at Millennium Park—there’s so much to do, from hiking and kayaking to enjoying the beach area. Both are must-visit spots!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Midwives and Community Health Workers are frontline workers are often the unsung heroes of maternal health, providing essential care and support to women, especially in underserved areas i am deeply grateful for their commitment to maternal health.
in every community, there are remarkable individuals whose dedication and hard work make a significant impact on the lives of others. These selfless individuals often go above and beyond, offering their time, skills, and compassion to make a positive difference. Whether through professional roles or volunteer efforts, their contributions are invaluable and deeply appreciated.

Volunteers, in particular, play a crucial role in supporting various initiatives and programs that benefit our community. They work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to ensure that essential services and support reach those who need it most. From providing hands-on assistance to offering emotional support, their efforts help create a more connected and caring community.

Website: https://mommyshelperinc.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MommysHelperinc/

Image Credits
Jacob Ahern