Website: https://www.shadesofblueproject.org/
Kay Matthews founded the Shades of Blue Project in 2013, shortly after the stillborn death of her daughter Troya Simone. The successful owner of Extraordinary Cakes and Catering shifted into full-time advocacy for Black birthing individuals after launching her Non-Profit organization BabyCakes and Brunch, from which the Shades of Blue Project was created.
As she built the Shades of Blue Project, she understood that she was not alone in her experience and that the maternal morbidity rates of Black women were only worsening. Also true was that Black maternal mental health support systems were non-existent, poorly managed, or resulted in Black mothers having their children removed from their homes. This lack of Black maternal mental health care and continued ill-treatment of Black birthing individuals spurred Matthews to create the I.N.S.P.I.R.E. Method Training. A unique training based on compassion, I.N.S.P.I.R.E. is specific to women of color and minorities and can be implemented by doulas, midwives, clinicians, and those facilitating support groups.
She also created Black Maternal Mental Health Week (BMMHW)—a week-long event that focuses on the challenges that persist, viable solutions, community support, and compassion training. During BMMHW, lay persons, healthcare workers, community members and leaders, and families can partake in a two-day summit, community brunch, and a 3K Family Walk. The event is held annually from July 19 through July 25.
Training page: https://www.shadesofblueproject.org/inspire
Participants will learn the I.N.S.P.I.R.E. Method and how it applies to maternal mental health. Training will include compassion care methods that participants can use in their everyday professional practice when working with and inside the community. This training is specific to care for women of color and minorities and can be implemented by both doulas, midwives, clinicians and those facilitating support groups.
