Girlfriends & Grace Foundation
314-329-7994
"Fostering Generations Through
Real Stories, Real Fun, and Real Love.”
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There is less than a 3% chance for children who have aged out of foster care to earn a college degree at any point in their life.
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7 out of 10 girls who age out of the foster care system will become pregnant before the age of 21.
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After reaching the age of 18, 20% of the children who were in foster care will become instantly homeless.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to prevent homelessness, foster self-sufficiency, and create pathways for long-term stability and independence. Through innovative programs, including STEM opportunities, creative expression, and advocacy for women’s rights, we aim to bridge generational gaps and improve quality of life, ensuring every woman has the resources to thrive and contribute to her community.
Girlfriends & Grace is committed to empowering marginalized women and girls by providing safe, stable housing and comprehensive support services, including mentoring, education, career development, personal counseling, and creative arts.
Why We’re Raising Funds
We are currently raising funds for Phase 1
Land Investment & Pre-Development of the Girlfriends & Grace Transitional Home—a unique, intergenerational housing community designed to provide:
Safe housing for young women transitioning out of foster care
A supportive living space for independent senior women to mentor
Community Resources for career, life skills, and emotional well being.
Where Your Investment is Going?
Every dollar raised during this phase goes directly toward
✅ Initial planning, zoning, and development costs
✅ Architectural & site design work
✅ Laying the groundwork for future construction
Potential Impact
By replicating this model in similar communities, Girlfriends & Grace aims to address systemic issues such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, and social isolation among seniors. Scaling this solution could lead to:
Reduction in Poverty Rates
Empowering women through stable housing and economic opportunities can break the cycle of poverty, leading to community-wide economic improvements.
Enhanced Community Cohesion
Intergenerational living fosters mutual support and understanding, strengthening community bonds.
Improved Quality of Life
Access to stable housing and supportive networks enhances overall well-being and mental health for participants.
The Founder
Antwoinette Ayers—Founder & CEO of Girlfriends & Grace, a storyteller, community builder, and advocate for women’s empowerment. My journey began with a vision to uplift women, particularly those in low-income communities, by providing real opportunities for growth, healing, and success. With a Bachelor of Science in Communication from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, I’ve dedicated my career to using communication, community development, and the arts to drive lasting change. As the Manager of Community Development at Cornerstone Corporation and the CEO of Visual Movements, I work to create spaces where stories are preserved, voices are heard, and opportunities are built. For over seven years, I’ve served as Communication Director for I AM EAST ST. LOUIS Magazine, ensuring that our city’s stories are told authentically. Through partnerships with SIUE, Sinai Development Core, and East St. Louis School District 189, and as a Community Liaison for Shakespeare in the Streets, I’ve worked to bridge gaps and build generational change. Girlfriends & Grace is the heart of my mission—a Foundation and podcast dedicated to supporting and celebrating women at every stage of life. Whether through storytelling, mentorship, or creative initiatives, my goal remains the same: to break cycles, empower women, and create spaces where we all can thrive.
Core Values of Girlfriends & Grace
Empowerment Through Action
We believe in giving women and girls the tools they need to stand tall, break barriers, and take charge of their future with confidence and purpose.
Innovating for Impact
From STEM programs to creative arts, we use bold ideas to open doors, spark change, and shape brighter futures.
Compassion in Every Step
Our mission is rooted in love and care. We meet women where they are, honoring their journey with grace, patience, and respect.
Bold Advocacy
We speak up for those who’ve been overlooked, championing women’s rights and fighting for systems that uplift, not oppress.
Building Bridges, Not Walls
We bring generations together to create a sense of belonging, understanding, and shared strength—because we’re better when we stand together.
Rooted in Stability
We focus on creating lasting change, offering tools and resources that lead to self-sufficiency and independence, not just short-term solutions.
Integrity as Our Foundation
We are committed to transparency, accountability, and staying true to our mission, vision, and the people we serve.
Honoring Diversity, Celebrating Stories
We cherish the unique experiences, backgrounds, and voices of every woman and girl, creating spaces where all feel seen and valued.
Collaboration with Purpose
We don’t do this alone. Partnerships and shared efforts are at the heart of everything we build, creating deeper impact together.
Healing Through Creativity
Art heals, expression liberates, and storytelling connects. We nurture creative spaces for women to explore, grow, and heal.
STAY IN THE KNOW
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