Acts of Love’s Nikky Woodson proves that life gets better.
By Nikky Woodson
I am a woman who wears many hats; serial entrepreneur, wife, mother of five, author, Christian counselor, executive coach and advocate. As Co-Chair of Wilco’s United Way Success by Six Coalition “Healthy Beginnings,” I’m dedicated to initiatives that support maternal and child health. Through my work on numerous boards and as the Executive Director and President of Acts of Love Early Childhood Education Center, my heart is anchored in serving teen parents and shedding light on the critical issue of maternal health equity, particularly for minorities.
But there’s more to my story than titles. As a teen mother myself, I know firsthand the challenges young women face when they become parents at an age where life is just beginning. I gave birth a week before my 19th birthday, in April of 2003. The world felt overwhelming. I, like many young mothers, struggled with the pressures of being judged, feeling unheard, looking for support and trying to find balance while caring for my child. On top of it all, I was still a student, determined to finish my high school education. The obstacles were daunting, but I pressed on – because that’s what survivors do.
My journey from teen parent to where I am today wasn’t an easy one. It wasn’t always clear, and there were moments where the future felt uncertain. But through faith, perseverance and the support of others, I discovered my own strength. And I want you to know – if you’re facing similar challenges – you have that strength too. Life does get better.
Today, as I work with young mothers through Acts of Love, we strive to provide the support that so many teen parents need but often lack. Our center offers free childcare services for teen parents in local independent school districts, giving them the opportunity to continue their education while knowing their child is cared for and safe. We’ve partnered with PFaith House to provide childcare for marginalized women escaping domestic violence – an issue that I’ve also faced.
One of the biggest issues I advocate for is maternal health equity, especially among minority women. The maternal mortality rates amongst black and brown women are at an an extreme high. The healthcare system can often fail women of color, leaving them without the care and support they need during one of the most critical times of their lives. I’ve been there. I’ve experienced what it’s like to not feel heard when it comes to my health and the health of my child. This is why I’m passionate about creating a future where every woman – regardless of her background – receives the care, attention and respect she deserves.
To all the young mothers out there who feel like they’re just surviving day by day: you are not alone and your story is not over. Each day you push forward you’re not just surviving – you’re laying the groundwork for a brighter, more empowered future. I see you, I hear you and I believe in you.
At Acts of Love, we’re not just providing childcare – we’re building a community of support and resources to help young parents thrive. We offer maternal and postpartum resources because we know the journey doesn’t stop at birth. Healing, wellness and success come with time, and it’s okay to ask for help along the way.
As we look ahead to the 2025 school year, our center is expanding to the Pflugerville Independent School District. If you feel moved by our mission, I encourage you to consider sponsoring a teen parent or supporting our expansion efforts. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these young women and their children.
Your story, your voice and your resilience matter. And when we lift each other up, we not only survive, we thrive.
Nikky Woodson is the Executive Director and President of Acts of Love. Acts of Love is on a mission to provide teen parents with the resources needed for a successful future. You can support or sponsor a teen parent through Acts of Love. Together, let’s continue to empower the next generation of survivors and wellness warriors.
TheActsOfLove.org
Facebook: @TheACTSoflove