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.

Morgan Henry, BGS Board of Directors

I feel incredibly passionate about the importance of accessible mental healthcare — especially care that is culturally connected and affirming. For years, I struggled to take control of my mental health. The process of finding a therapist who truly understood me felt nearly impossible. I tried, gave up, and tried again. It wasn’t until I finally received a PMDD diagnosis that everything shifted. That moment of clarity and validation changed, and quite literally, saved my life.

That’s why joining the board of Black Girls Smile wasn’t just a decision, it was a calling. Under Lauren’s leadership, the growth of BGS has been nothing short of inspiring, and it energizes me to think about how much farther we can go together. I’m honored to serve as a steward of this mission and even more honored to do it in community with such brilliant, compassionate women.

To me, BGS is the ultimate embodiment of community. Being in community with Black girls and women can be many things: a lifeline, a safe space, a place to grow and learn and just be. It fills me with purpose and pride and reminds me to keep showing up as my fullest, most authentic self.

One thing I’ve learned over time is that when it comes to mental health, there are things I can control and things I can’t. I’ve learned to focus on what I can control and get help with the rest. That’s the lesson I carry and hope to pass along to others, especially the girls we serve.

Supporting mental health for Black girls is critical because they often face unique challenges at the intersection of race, gender, and age — challenges that are compounded by systemic inequities, underrepresentation, cultural stigma, and disproportionate trauma exposure. By focusing on their mental wellness, we validate their experiences and give them tools to heal, grow, and thrive.

When you donate to Black Girls Smile, you’re not just giving, you’re investing in a generation. Your support helps dismantle stigma, create safe spaces, and ensure that Black girls have what they need to care for their minds and hearts. That matters. Every dollar makes a difference.

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 morgan@blackgirlssmile.org or connect with me on LinkedIn.

Morgan Henry

Uplifting Black Girls Through Community & Care