Hidden Gems: Meet Markesha Witherspoon of The M.O.M.S Club Of Grand Rapids

Today we’d like to introduce you to Markesha Witherspoon.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My Story

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan a place that has shaped my values, my work, and my purpose. My journey into birth work and community organizing didn’t start in a hospital or a boardroom, it started beside my younger sister. She was a successful pageant queen, and I traveled with her across the states helping with appearances, service projects, and events. Watching her confidence grow and her impact expand showed me early on how powerful women and girls can be when they’re poured into.

That passion led me to begin organizing self-esteem workshops and community events for young girls. But everything changed when I became pregnant with my twin daughters. Suddenly, I saw motherhood in a new light, how isolating it can feel, how overlooked moms often are, and how hard it is to find real support that understands your journey. I didn’t just want better for myself, I wanted better for all of us.

So I created The M.O.M.S Club of Grand Rapids, a community-based organization dedicated to uplifting mothers through events, education, advocacy, and hands-on support. We focus on every stage of motherhood from pregnancy to postpartum to parenting. We host everything from community baby showers to Easter egg hunts and empowerment tea parties, giving moms a place to belong, be celebrated, and access resources that make a difference.

Becoming a certified doula was the next step in deepening that mission. I’ve supported women through childbirth, postpartum healing, breastfeeding journeys, and all the messy, beautiful moments in between. As a Black woman in the birth space, I understand how vital culturally competent, compassionate care is especially in a world where Black mothers face disproportionately high risks. I’m committed to being a safe, knowledgeable, and empowering presence for every mother I serve.

My story is still being written, but I’m proud of what’s already been built: a movement rooted in sisterhood, faith, and showing up for one another. Through The M.O.M.S Club, my doula practice, and every mom I meet, I’m building a legacy of support one mother at a time.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Obstacles & Challenges

The journey hasn’t been easy. One of my biggest challenges has been learning how to pour into others while still figuring out how to pour into myself. As a mother, especially a young, Black mother I’ve had to navigate a lot of expectations, pressure, and unspoken responsibilities. When I became pregnant with my twin girls, I didn’t feel fully seen or supported by the systems that were supposed to protect me. That experience opened my eyes to how many other mothers were silently struggling too.

Starting my business and building The M.O.M.S Club of Grand Rapids came with its own set of obstacles. I didn’t have a big budget, a fancy team, or all the connections. I was doing the work from the ground up while raising kids, working, and showing up for other moms. There were times when I questioned myself, wondered if people would take me seriously, or if I was even qualified to do what I felt called to do.

On top of that, being a Black woman in birth work and community leadership means constantly advocating not just for others, but for myself. There have been moments where I’ve been overlooked, underestimated, or undervalued but I never let that stop me. I let it fuel me.

As a nonprofit, one of the ongoing challenges we face is securing consistent funding. Every event, care package, workshop, and resource we provide is made possible through community support. We rely heavily on donations, partnerships, and sponsorships to continue serving moms who need us most. There’s always more work to be done and more families who need that extra hand. So we’re constantly looking for ways to expand our reach, grow our programs, and find the financial support needed to keep this mission alive.

Every challenge I’ve faced has taught me something deeper about resilience, purpose, and grace. And the beautiful part? I’ve turned those hard lessons into safe spaces for other moms who need to hear, “You’re not alone.”

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
About The M.O.M.S Club of Grand Rapids

The M.O.M.S Club of Grand Rapids is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, educating, and uplifting mothers through all stages of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. We create safe, supportive spaces for moms to connect, grow, and access resources they may not otherwise have. From community baby showers and holiday events to wellness workshops and peer support, we’re committed to showing up for mothers especially those who are underserved, overlooked, or navigating motherhood with limited support.

Whether you’re a first-time mom, a single mom, a working mom, or a stay-at-home mom, we believe you deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to bridge the gap in maternal support by providing community-based services, culturally competent care, and empowering resources for mothers at every stage of their journey. We are committed to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit of every mom we serve.

Vision Statement

We envision a world where all mothers regardless of background, income, or circumstance feel empowered, connected, and equipped to thrive. Through advocacy, education, and intentional community, The M.O.M.S Club of Grand Rapids strives to transform the maternal experience one mother at a time.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Essential Qualities of The M.O.M.S Club of Grand Rapids
1. Supportive – We provide a safe, judgment-free space for mothers to be seen, heard, and held emotionally, mentally, and physically.
2. Empowering – We equip moms with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to advocate for themselves and thrive in motherhood.
3. Community-Driven – Our work is rooted in sisterhood and shared experiences. We build strong relationships and prioritize collective care over competition.
4. Culturally Competent – We serve with an understanding of the unique experiences of Black and brown mothers, and we center voices that are often left out of maternal conversations.
5. Compassionate – We lead with love and empathy, recognizing that every mother’s journey is different and every story matters.
6. Faith-Inspired – Our work is guided by purpose and grace, grounded in a belief that every mother is chosen and equipped by God for the role she’s been given.
7. Accessible – We intentionally create low-cost or free events and programs to ensure every mother, regardless of income or status, can get the support she needs.
8. Resilient – We rise through challenges, adapt through change, and stay committed to the mission because our moms deserve consistency, not excuses.

Pricing:

• We offer free doula services through medicaid and also offer out of pocket prices

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themomsclubofgrandrapids/profilecard/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558497295630