Birth Keepers BIPOC Doula Pilot Program

Program Name: Birth Keepers BIPOC Doula Pilot Program

Administrator: Fourth Plain Forward (FPF)

Program Duration: 2 years (comprehensive initiative)

Geographic Scope: Clark County/Fourth Plain area, Washington

Purpose:
Train and mentor women of color to become skilled, culturally attuned doulas to address maternal health disparities in communities of color.

Target Population:

• Women of color
• Focus on addressing disparities faced by Black, Indigenous, Pacific Islander, Native American/Alaska Native, and Hispanic/Latine women

Problem Being Addressed:
Maternal mortality rates among women of color are alarmingly high:

• Pacific Islanders: 85+ per 100,000 live births
• Native American and Alaska Native women: 263+ per 100,000 live births
• Black and African American women: 78+ per 100,000 live births
• Hispanic and White women: 121+ per 100,000 live births

Program Benefits for Participants:

• Paid Doula Training: Comprehensive training with all necessary materials provided
• Ongoing Paid Mentorship: Support throughout and after training
• State Certification: Licensure as a doula through Washington State
• Business Startup Guidance: Support with medical billing and business launch
• Continuous Support: Monthly check-ins for one year post-training

Mentorship Component

• Support during licensure process
• Assistance with counseling, prenatal, and postpartum visits
• Phone/text support during births
• Debriefing sessions for skill development
• Mentorship duration varies (potentially 3+ months)
• Support system for families served

Program Philosophy:
"Doula care should not just be a privilege, but it should be a standard of care."

Contact Information:

• Fourth Plain Forward
• Phone: (360) 258-0817
• Email: info@fourthplainforward.org
• Address: 5107 E Fourth Plain Blvd, Suite 111, Vancouver, WA 98661
• Hours: Monday to Friday by appointment only

Application Process

Program is currently accepting applications. Applicants are invited to participate in informational sessions to learn more about the program.

Requirements for Applicants:

• Identify as a woman of color
• Commitment to 2-year program
• Willingness to engage in paid training and mentorship
• Interest in serving as a culturally attuned doula in the community

Selection Process:

• Successful applicants are accepted into the program
• Participants receive full benefits including paid training, materials, mentorship, and business guidance

Contact for More Information:

• Fourth Plain Forward
• Phone: (360) 258-0817
• Email: info@fourthplainforward.org