About Black Girls Smile (BGS)

Black Girls Smile Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the mental health and well-being of Black girls and women. Through culturally responsive programming, advocacy, and resources, BGS ensures that every young Black girl has access to the tools she needs to thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.

Dr. Ayanna Abrams, BGS Board of Directors

I was inspired to join the board of Black Girls Smile because its mission feels like a calling — a responsibility I gladly carry. As a licensed psychologist, I’ve spent my career advocating for mental health equity and reducing stigma in Black communities. But BGS takes it a step further by centering the voices and needs of Black girls from the very beginning of their mental health journeys. It is powerful and personal work.

Black Girls Smile creates the kind of space I wish had existed when I was younger — a space where therapy is normalized, joy is celebrated, and vulnerability is welcomed. For me, being a part of BGS is more than a professional alignment. It’s deeply personal. I know what it means to feel unseen, to be the “strong one,” to be told that your pain is too much or your struggle isn’t valid. BGS helps undo that narrative, one girl at a time.

Being involved with this organization has been a transformative experience. It reminds me every day of the need to center joy and healing in our work. I’ve had the honor of contributing my clinical expertise while learning from other board members, partners, and most importantly the girls we serve. Together, we are building something deeply intentional and radically healing.

I have no problem advocating for the importance of mental health — not just in my work, but in my life. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when mental health is ignored, and I’ve seen the magic that unfolds when it is nurtured. One lesson I carry with me is that mental health is never about just one person, it’s collective. It’s cultural. It’s about the environments we create for each other.

That’s why supporting Black girls in this area is non-negotiable. They deserve the same attention, care, and resources that other groups receive and yet, they’re often the last to get it. Donating to BGS isn’t just a gift to an organization it’s an investment in a future where Black girls can thrive.

Donors and donations have a direct impact on real, tangible programming. Whether it’s through our Therapy Assistance Program or community-based workshops, your dollars go directly to supporting mental wellness in a way that is accessible, affirming, and rooted in care.

Each program we offer deserves attention because they all have the power to transform. Whether you choose to support therapy access, educational programming, or awareness initiatives, you’re helping to build a future where Black girls are empowered to care for their whole selves.

Help Me Support This Mission

I’m asking you to help me make a difference — to help Black girls access the mental health support they deserve.

Become a recurring donor today. Your ongoing support allows BGS to sustain and grow our life-changing programming all year round.

And if a monthly gift doesn’t work for you right now, a one-time donation of any amount still makes a powerful impact. Your generosity helps us reach more girls, offer more services, and break down the barriers standing in the way of their healing and joy.

Together, we can create a world where every Black girl truly believes: her smile is a reflection of her strength.

If you'd like to connect or have questions, feel free to reach out: Supporters can email me at ayanna@blackgirlssmile.org

Dr. Ayanna Abrams

Mental Health Equity for Black Girls Starts Here