Imajine Me Mission and Vision
MIssion:
Imajine Me Inc is a 501C3 nonprofit organization that is committed to supporting adolescent and college parents and preventing risks among our youth, through education, conversations, community and resources.
Vision:
Imajine Me Inc envisions a world where adolescent and college parents, ages 12-22, are empowered, supported, and equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive, and where all teens have the tools to prevent risks and make informed decisions about their futures.
Prevention Support Groups
Our support groups are held quarterly throughout the year, focusing on equipping adolescents and families with the knowledge, skills, and resources essential for navigating the challenges of this pivotal stage in their lives. We recognize that adolescence is a period of both exploration and potential pitfalls, which is why our sessions cover a broad spectrum of topics including crime prevention, suicide prevention, substance abuse prevention, and the consequences of high-risk sexual behavior and teenage pregnancy.
Through a combination of community conversations, parent advocacy, mentorships, and educational events, our support groups offer a comprehensive approach to supporting adolescents during this crucial phase of development.
Baby Closet is Open!!!
Baby Closet for Teen and Collegiate Parents
Our program is dedicated to supporting teen and collegiate parents by providing them with the essential resources they need to care for their babies. We understand that parenting as a teenager or college student can be challenging, which is why we are here to help ease the burden.
At Baby Closet, we offer a wide range of baby supplies, including bottles, wipes, clothing, diapers, bags, and more. Our goal is to ensure that teen and collegiate parents have access to everything they need to care for their little ones without worrying about the financial strain.
We operate on a donation-based model and are always accepting contributions for our closet. Whether it's gently used baby items or new supplies, every donation helps us support young parents in our community.
All of our services are completely free of charge, because we believe that every parent deserves the support and resources they need to provide for their child.
If you are a teen or collegiate parent in need of baby supplies, or if you would like to donate to our cause, please reach out to us!
Teen Parenting Classes and Life Skills Training
Our parenting classes and support services serve as a vital platform for teen parents to assert their voices and actively participate in the upbringing of their children. At our organization, we prioritize advocating for a healthy and nurturing environment for both parent and child, offering invaluable assistance and guidance along the journey of parenthood.
We understand the unique challenges that teen parents face, which is why we provide a safe and welcoming space for adolescents to seek advice, share experiences, and access the resources they need to thrive as parents. Our classes and support groups are designed to empower teen parents, encouraging them to actively engage in their child's development while fostering a supportive community of like-minded individuals.
We strongly encourage teen parents to invite their support systems to join our classes and groups, recognizing the importance of a robust network of support in navigating the complexities of parenthood. Our support groups are conveniently held at various locations throughout the cities we serve, ensuring accessibility for all.
For more information on how to get connected with our parenting classes and support groups, please reach out to us. We're here tosupport you every step of the way on your parenting journey.
Safe Sex Kits Packing Parties
A fun and impactful way to promote sexual health and responsibility among adolescents and young adults! Our program aims to empower participants to take charge of their sexual health by providing access to essential resources and fostering open conversations about safe sex practices.
Babies, Books, and Bears...Oh My!
Introducing our "Babies, Books and Bears...Oh My" program—a initiative dedicated to hosting free book giveaways for adolescent and college parents aged 12-22. Our mission is to foster a love for literacy in both young children and young parents alike. We happily accept donations of new and gently used books and stuffed teddy bears to support this cause and expand access to reading materials for all families.
Upcoming and Past Events
PreProm Prevent Event
Our program is dedicated to providing teenagers with comprehensive sex education and resources to help them understand their sexual health better. Geared towards teens, especially during the exciting prom season, we offer a safe space for adolescents to gather, learn, and empower themselves to make informed decisions about their sexual well-being.
During our annual events held around prom season, we create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a kick-back social hour. Here, teens can engage with sexual health advocates and professionals who provide valuable information and tools on how to stay safe during prom night and beyond. Our goal is to equip teens with the knowledge and confidence to make responsible choices regarding their sexual health and to resist peer pressure.
At "Prom Prevention," we understand the importance of prevention. That's why we offer Safe Sex kits to the community, designed specifically for sexually active youth. These kits are packed with essential resources aimed at preventing teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), ensuring that teens have access to the tools they need to protect themselves and their partners.
Celebrating Teen Mothers on Mothers Day
Imajine Me collaborated with Mothers Refuge to host a special event dedicated to honoring and celebrating the incredible strength, resilience, and love of teen mothers in our community!
Our celebration is a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable journey of teen mothers, who navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood with grace and determination. It's a day to recognize their sacrifices, triumphs, and unwavering commitment to their children's well-being.
Parents Prevent Program
Imajine Me is hosting an event with Children's Mercy Hospital and we want to collaborate with the community! Feel free to bring a friend and RSVP @ 816743-4434 or imajinemeinc@gmail.com
Holiday Keepsakes
Holiday Keepsake is a unique partnership program with Imajine Me and Angela Phipps Photography, created to help young parents and their families capture cherished holiday memories—completely free of charge! We serve pregnant youth and adolescent parents ages 13-23. If you’re within that age range, you’re eligible!
We also want to honor those who were once adolescent parents but may have missed the chance to take family photos back in the day. This is your opportunity to create a lasting keepsake. Whether you were a teenage mother or father who couldn’t capture those moments then, now is your time to preserve these memories—it’s never too late.
"Imajine" Impact
Thank you for making impact in our youth!
300+
People reached
100 %
Dedicated
1000+
Clothing Donated
Community Collaborations are Needed
At Imajine Me, we understand the power of community and corporate partnerships. They're essential for the success of our programs and the youth that we are serving
We extend a heartfelt invitation to you and your organization to partner with us. Together, we can MAKE A DIFFERENCE for adolescent and collegiate pareting and prevention risks. Your support can transform lives. Let's unite for a cause that matters. Join hands with Imajine Me today!
The Board
Imagine Me is governed by a diverse and experienced Board, consisting of individuals with extensive knowledge, diverse personal stories, and specialized expertise, all dedicated to meeting your needs.
Shannon Gooden
Treasurer
As a dedicated anddetail-oriented accounting professional, Shannon Gooden has been meeting the
accounting needs of corporations and individuals in the Kansas City area for the past twelve years. Shannon currently works as a Senior Accountant for a Financial Services Company. Shannon earned a bachelor's degree in finance from the University of Missouri - Kansas City along with her certification in financial coaching. She is a financial strategist and expert helping individuals and corporations to become financially empowered. She became inspired to workwith nonprofit organizations after being involved in several youth programs and organizations in her community, where she often volunteered and mentored teens
and young adults. It gave her an opportunity to make a difference and be a part of creating a lasting impact. Her passion for the youth and finances, has led her to serve on the board as Treasurer and oversee financial operations. Through her many years of work as an Accountant and financial coach, she brings
her financial expertise, leadership, and organizational skills to the
organization.
.Monica Green
Secretary
- I am a senior quality interventions specialist and projectmanager for a local healthcare carrier. I have been employed in healthcare for over 30 years. I am a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Alpha Epsilon Zeta chapter in Kansas City, Kansas I currently hold the position of president. I have been a part of many community-based boards over the last 5 years. I am compassionate about giving back to the community and supporting the needs of those who require it. I have been awarded the 2022 volunteer of the year among other accolades for my service.My goal is to bring awareness to the community by partnering with other organizations to have a greater impact in the community with education, resources and other outlets.
Latrice Thomas
Founder/Chair
Latrice Thomas is a passionate advocate for teen parents, driven by her own experiences and a deep desire to support others facing similar challenges. As a teen mother of two daughters, Imani and Jasmine, Latrice understands firsthand the obstacles and struggles that young parents encounter while navigating parenthood.
Inspired by her own journey and motivated by the lack of resources and support available to teen parents, Latrice founded Imajine Me. Her vision for the organization was shaped by the realization that there was a significant gap in sexual health education and conversations within homes and communities. Determined to break the silence surrounding these crucial topics and dismantle the stigmas associated with teen parenthood, Latrice embarked on a mission to create a supportive and inclusive environment for young families.
Imajine Me was born out of Latrice's unwavering commitment to providing teen parents with the resources, guidance, and empowerment they need to thrive. Recognizing that raising children requires a village, Latrice believes that this support is even more critical for teen parents who are still navigating their own growth and development.
Through Imajine Me, Latrice aims to build a community where teen parents can find solidarity, encouragement, and the tools to navigate parenthood with confidence. Her dedication to breaking barriers and fostering open dialogue underscores her belief that every parent, regardless of age, deserves access to support and understanding. LaTrice Thomas's journey from teen motherhood to advocate and founder of Imajine Me is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
- I am a senior quality interventions specialist and projectmanager for a local healthcare carrier. I have been employed in healthcare for over 30 years. I am a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Alpha Epsilon Zeta chapter in Kansas City, Kansas I currently hold the position of president. I have been a part of many community-based boards over the last 5 years. I am compassionate about giving back to the community and supporting the needs of those who require it. I have been awarded the 2022 volunteer of the year among other accolades for my service.My goal is to bring awareness to the community by partnering with other organizations to have a greater impact in the community with education, resources and other outlets.
Contact US
We would love to hear from YOU!
Want to Volunteer?
Imagine Me is continuously seeking compassionate individuals who are passionate about serving, teaching, and mentoring within our organization. Your invaluable assistance will drive the movement forward. To express your interest, kindly provide your contact information, and we will promptly reach out to you..
ImajineME encourages our youth to make their voices heard by exercising their right to vote!Make sure your voter registration is up to date and get registered if you haven’t yet.
Your vote matters in the upcoming election—make it count!
We appreciate our community partnerships
Thank you for supporting!!!
Imajine Me, Inc is an official 501 C3 organization
Contact Us
PO Box 18732 Raytown, MO 64133
816-743-4434
imajinemeinc@gmail.com
© 2023 501C3 TaxExempt 92-3776962