Building a Tech Nonprofit for Mental Health Support with Priya Iyer, Founder of Our Roots
In this episode, Matt sat down with Priya Iyer, the founder of Our Roots. Together they explore the importance of addressing mental health in underserved communities, overcoming funding challenges, and the unique approach of Priya’s tech-based organization.
Our Roots is a virtual peer education and support platform for mental wellness created with BIPOC women and birthing communities impacted by poverty. Our Roots has received funding and organizational support through the Camelback 2023 Fellowship, California Health Care Foundation, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, a Racial Justice in Early Childhood Fellowship in partnership with the OpEd project and the National Black Child Development Institute, Orrick, and vChief. Before founding Our Roots, Priya was an Entrepreneur in Residence of Promise Venture Studio.
Addressing a Critical Need
The mental health of pregnant and postpartum individuals is a pressing issue, particularly within low-income communities of color. Our Roots makes a significant impact by connecting these communities with culturally reverent peer support coaches through a virtual platform.
This approach is not just about providing support; it's about offering it in a way that resonates with the unique needs and cultural contexts of these communities. Priya’s goal is clear:
“Our goal is to really be able to offer this type of culturally relevant care to every birthing parent across the US.”
Overcoming Barriers with Virtual Support
Priya notes that the idea of virtual support for such personal matters was met with initial skepticism. However, Our Roots has proven that virtual platforms can effectively meet the needs of their community. Priya says, “We found that people really wanted to have a virtual relationship and build that relationship on their smartphone so great.”
The flexibility of virtual support is valuable for those facing numerous appointments and logistical challenges, as it allows them to receive help without additional stress. This shift to a virtual model has been a game-changer, providing accessibility and convenience.
Adapting to Meet Needs
One of the most significant challenges Our Roots faced was adapting their services to better serve their communities. Initially, they employed a structured curriculum, but feedback indicated that this approach was not always effective, particularly for racially-charged situations not covered by the curriculum.
In response, the organization pivoted to a more flexible model. Priya says, "We had to really think about how we build our own resources to support people in advocating for themselves. There are other structures and ways that we are really trying to shift systemic racism, and that is a slow process.”
This adaptability has been crucial in ensuring that the provided support is relevant and impactful. By empowering peer coaches to tailor their approach and creating a resource database, Our Roots has been able to respond effectively to the evolving needs of their participants.
Building Strong Partnerships
The success of Our Roots also underscores the importance of strong partnerships and community support. As Priya says, “The power of two people who really believe in what you’re doing and an early board that will invest in the organization and you as a leader in many different ways—that’s really powerful.” These early supporters were instrumental in helping the organization navigate challenges and build credibility.
Furthermore, Priya emphasizes the value of maintaining direct connections with the community:
“I make sure to continue doing peer support coaching myself so that I really understand what’s happening in our communities.”
This hands-on approach ensures that the organization remains responsive and attuned to the needs of those they serve.
Get the Full Scoop!
Listen to this episode of the Nonprofit Connect podcast to learn more from Priya about the challenges and opportunities involved in running a nonprofit.