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Sometimes the right path finds you when you least expect it.
For Denedra Tyler-Richardson, that path led from ForKids’ Development team to the Economic Mobility program, where her signature warmth, contagious energy and gift for connecting with people have helped dozens of women pursue their goals and build brighter futures.
When Denedra joined ForKids in March 2022 as a Donor Relations Coordinator, she knew she wanted to help people. What she didn’t know was that eight months later she would discover a new calling.
A graduate of Norfolk State University with degrees in Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Denedra was working toward a business management degree when she joined ForKids. Her introduction to Economic Mobility came when she was invited to observe a participant meeting.
“I was inspired,” she recalled. “I loved the interaction and seeing the gratitude on the participant’s face. So many people have been hurt by the people who were supposed to love them. The main thing was listening.”
Since joining the team in November 2022, Denedra has helped dozens of women work toward goals related to employment, education, financial stability and personal growth. As a Mobility Mentor, she meets with participants regularly over a period of 12 to 18 months, providing accountability, encouragement and support along the way.
“I mentor them, but I feel like they mentor me, too,” she said. “Hearing them talk about how my presence and guidance helped them actually keeps me going.”
One participant who stands out is Simone, who entered the program while grieving the loss of her mother and struggling to find direction. During her time in the program, Simone started counseling, returned to school, secured employment and worked through significant personal challenges. She graduated from the program in just 12 months.
“Every time something happened, she kept going,” Denedra said. “I was available, and that’s what these ladies really appreciate. Listening, being there and being accountable.”
While the work can be emotionally demanding, Denedra says the relationships she builds with participants make it worthwhile.
“The title I hold is really about building rapport,” she said. “Going from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset. If those things aren’t done first, the other goals won’t happen.”
That process takes time. Some participants experience breakthroughs within weeks. Others take months. For Denedra, the key is creating a safe space where people can show up as they are and begin to believe in what’s possible.
“For these ladies to let me in, that means I’ve created a space for them to be themselves,” she said. “No judgment. No bias.”
The connections she builds are so meaningful that participants sometimes tell her they scheduled a meeting simply because they wanted to “feel some of your sparkle.”
It’s a fitting compliment for someone whose positivity, empathy and encouragement leave a lasting impact on everyone she meets. Whether she’s helping a participant navigate a difficult season or brightening a coworker’s day with her smile, Denedra reminds us that meaningful change begins with relationships.
Learn more about ForKids’ Economic Mobility programs.