About the Foundation
At Kerengende, we believe that girls who have experienced sexual trauma are more resilient when their families don’t feel alone.
Every day, we help these families through building a healing community connected to information, support resources, and education. Because as our communities continue to learn how best to support girls and families in need, we realize that we are stronger together.
Sexual abuse is an abuse of power. When a young girl is abused, our communities often misdirect their focus on the behavior of the one who was harmed; therefore, recovering girls and families can face the additional trauma of navigating unskilled or judgmental responses at a time when they need unconditional support and helpful information. Extended family, churches, communities, schools, courts, and police can be well-meaning yet lack information about the effects of sexual trauma on a girl’s development and the impacts on family and community dynamics. Kerengende Foundation is building a warm, accepting platform for families to access resources, information, and support so that our families don’t have to go it alone in their healing.
Amber Clayborne
Founder
My life was turned upside down when I discovered that my daughter had been sexually abused.
When I began to navigate the reality of seeking treatment for her trauma, I was dismayed to find a lack of understanding by well-meaning people and institutions. I struggled to find adequate and compassionate resources to support her.
I’m taking action to ensure that other families have a better experience because I believe that no family should have to struggle alone while dealing with the aftermath and shock of such trauma. I’m determined to help bridge the existing resource gaps in society, so that families can get the help they need without feeling isolated.
James Clayborne, Jr.
Board President
Former Illinois Senator James Clayborne Jr. is recognized for his tireless dedication to empowering underserved populations through education, faith-based programs, and the value of hard work.
Dr. Kimbra Bell Balark
Board Secretary
A board-certified Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine and named one of Illinois’ Most Powerful and Influential Women by the National Women’s Conference, Dr. Bell has a special interest in serving Chicago’s vulnerable communities.
Tia B. Paulette
Board Member-at-Large
Tia B. Paulette is an Assistant Attorney General. She earned two bachelor’s of arts in philosophy and political science along with a multicultural certificate from the University of Missouri in 2015. Afterwards, she attended Notre Dame Law School where she earned her Doctor of Jurisprudence.
