Our Founder
Nikki K Richardson, Founder
Believing in the God, Family and our Community.
Dr. Nikki Richardson, Founder and Visionary Leader
For over 25 years, Dr. Nikki Richardson has been a driving force in the design, development, and implementation of transformative community services in metropolitan Atlanta. With a deep commitment to social justice, she has built a career dedicated to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly children, young adults, and marginalized communities.
Community Service Design and Implementation
Dr. Richardson's journey began with a focus on creating holistic programs that empower individuals and families to break free from cycles of poverty, addiction, and instability. One of her most notable achievements was the development of a comprehensive program for tenants of the Housing Authorities in Atlanta, aimed at supporting individuals reentering the workforce. This program not only provided essential job training and placement services but also offered wraparound support, including mental health counseling and financial literacy education, ensuring participants had the tools needed to achieve long-term success.
In 2009, Nikki founded the Family Development and Education Collaborative, a network of services designed to address the interconnected challenges faced by families in Atlanta. By integrating education, mental health, and family support services, the Collaborative became a model for effective community intervention, improving outcomes for countless families while also demonstrating a positive return on investment for stakeholders.
Consultation and Coordination of National and Local Programs
Dr. Richardson's expertise extends beyond local initiatives. She has served as a consultant and coordinator for a range of national programs, bringing her insight and leadership to initiatives that address some of the most pressing social issues. From 2009 to 2014, she played a pivotal role in the National Drug Court Programming, where her work helped to reshape the approach to drug addiction and criminal justice, emphasizing rehabilitation over incarceration.
Her commitment to public health is evident in her involvement with the Minority AIDS Task Force, where she worked to increase awareness, prevention, and treatment of HIV/AIDS among high-risk populations. Nikki also founded Sisters for Life, an organization focused on preventing teen pregnancy and prostitution, providing young women with the support and resources needed to make positive life choices.
Her advocacy extended to the LGBTQ community, particularly homeless youth, where she developed programs that offered safe spaces, counseling, and access to essential services, ensuring that these vulnerable individuals had the support needed to thrive.
Leadership and Collaboration
Dr. Richardson’s leadership is characterized by her ability to bring together diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals. She has served on numerous boards, including the Governors Youth Advisory Council and the American Red Cross Youth Advocacy program, where she has leveraged her expertise to influence policy and expand the reach of critical services.
Her collaborative spirit has led to partnerships with local hospitals, schools, and community organizations, including Grady Hospital and the Imani Mentor Program. These collaborations have been instrumental in expanding access to care and support for at-risk populations, making a lasting impact on the community.
Entrepreneurial Endeavors and Ongoing Education
In 2013, Dr. Richardson founded a mental health center that quickly grew into a one-stop shop for family services, reflecting her belief that addressing the needs of the whole family is key to achieving sustainable change. This center offers a wide range of services, including individual and family counseling, substance abuse treatment, and educational support, making it a cornerstone of the community.
Dr. Richardson’s entrepreneurial spirit is further demonstrated by her role as the founder and board member of seven other agencies, each focused on different aspects of social justice reform. These agencies work on issues ranging from foster care to legal advocacy, all united by a common mission to improve the lives of those they serve.
Currently, Dr. Richardson holds a Ph.D. in Christian leadership and business, and she continues to expand her knowledge and skills. In Fall 2024, she will begin law school, a move that will further enhance her ability to advocate for her community. Her pursuit of legal education is driven by a desire to deepen her impact, particularly in the areas of social justice and family law.
Personal Life and Values
Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Richardson is a devoted mother to her son, Kenneth, who is currently attending college. She treasures her time with family and believes that the decisions she makes in her career have a direct influence on shaping a better future for her son and his generation. Nikki’s personal and professional life is guided by principles of compassion, integrity, and resilience, qualities that have made her a respected leader and a beloved figure in the community.
