Mission:
We are a birth justice organization providing comprehensive doula support with a focus on vulnerable communities in the Chicago-land area.
A Chicago Volunteer Doula is a labor support professional who has chosen to commit time and energy to helping pregnant people and their families in Chicago. Our doulas come from a variety of backgrounds. They are social workers, childcare workers, cab drivers, community organizers, accountants, stay-at-home moms, midwifery students, artists, activists, nurses, lawyers, teachers, yoga instructors and massage therapists.
Our doulas celebrate different racial, ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds and some are fluent in Spanish, Russian and Polish to name a few. CVD doulas include women, men and gender non-conforming or trans people, as well as members of both straight and LGBTQ communities. Some of our doulas have disabilities. No matter their background ALL of our doulas are committed to provide the best doula support to the clients they serve. If you feel you would not be comfortable receiving services from a doula who may not be from the same community as you or may have a different background we will be happy to refer you to a community based doula program or get you a list of private doulas.
All of our doulas have been trained by an accredited organization and many are certified. Some of our doulas are new to the profession while many have been supporting mothers in childbirth for years. Each doula has been interviewed by our administrators to ensure that they support our mission, have the necessary skills and are committed to our mission and the families we serve.
Why do we find joy supporting families?
Each of our doulas has begun their journey into the field for a unique reason. Many of our doulas are mothers who have experienced the wonder of pregnancy and childbirth and wish to provide support to other mothers and parents during such a life-changing time. Other doulas enter the field to support and empower people in what is likely the most powerful experience of their lives.
The most common reason a doula is drawn to this work can best be described as a calling. These individuals have found a common passion for holding the hand of a laboring woman who is becoming a mother, anyone who is becoming a parent or anyone who is giving birth. They attend the birth of each baby as if it were for the first time and stand in awe of watching each family being born.
Chicago Volunteer Doulas: Making a Difference
