About Us
Our Identity
Da Hood Connect is an organization that strengthens support systems and reduces social and economic barriers with the aim of fostering the health and education of Black and under-resourced communities through media engagement and community events that celebrate black culture and identity.
Our Mission
To address and reduce barriers that Black and under-resourced communities' encounter; we do this through education, advocacy, and connections.
Our Vision
We envision a world where Black and underserved communities have full access to the resources they need to thrive.
Our Values
Authenticity and Integrity - Our communities are built on a foundation of honesty and authenticity. We are unapologetic about being who we are, addressing our concerns, and getting our needs met. We are committed to being a transparent and a trusted source to our community, and welcome accountability from the community we serve.
Collaboration & Vulnerability - We believe that in order to make an impact and benefit the overall community, it will take collaborative efforts and intentionality about developing equitable partnerships with those who align with our mission. We create safe environments to encourage healthy, vulnerable, and caring relationships to help build back our communities' strong villages.
Innovation - We will be conscious and intentional about thinking outside of old/current ideas, methods and systems that don’t serve our community and to creatively problem solve so that we may impact a positive and sustainable change within our community.
Our Priorities
Strengthening Communities: Vital for urban well-being, we prioritize helping Black individuals and families connect with local organizations, engage in neighborhood initiatives, and participate in civic activities.
Supporting Well-being: We focus on assisting Black individuals and families with accessing vital social services, including housing support, employment, childcare, and mental health counseling.
Navigating Urban Complexity: In densely populated urban areas with diverse services, we recognize the challenge of navigating these environments, especially for newcomers or those with limited service access experience.
Cultural Diversity Support: Recognizing the rich diversity in cities, we prioritize aiding Black individuals and families in accessing culturally sensitive resources tailored to their unique needs.
Our Founder
Shavanna Spratt
About the Woman Behind Da Hood Connect
Shavanna has spent the majority of her early years living in the county of Saint Louis and has been a resident of Ferguson, MO since 2012. As a Doula, over 10 years of employment in the healthcare field and personal experiences as a dedicated mother of two; she has been supporting and advocating for Mothers and babies. With her passion for re-powering others, advancing racial equity, and putting community voices first; she has spent the last few years developing and hosting Da Hood Talks Podcast. A media platform with the mission to engage community, educate community and be a resource to the community it serves. Shavanna knows that community voices are what's lacking, when decisions are being made for her community and others like it. She is working efficiently to change that narrative by advancing her own voice and elevating those in her community.
Connect with her on LinkedIn!