1. Matching: Interested seniors and volunteers are matched based on shared interests, hobbies, or proximity.
2. Regular Visits/Phone Calls: Volunteers commit to visiting or calling their adopted senior regularly, ensuring ongoing support, companionship, and social interaction.
3. Assistance with Tasks: Volunteers provide practical help with tasks like grocery shopping, light home repairs, yard work, or organization.
4. Celebrations and Outings: Plan occasional outings or events for adopted seniors, such as birthday celebrations, holiday parties, movie nights, or excursions to local attractions.
5. Communication and Support: Establish a platform for ongoing communication, allowing seniors to reach out for assistance or support when needed.
6. Engage with Community Resources: Connect seniors with additional community resources, such as meal delivery programs, healthcare assistance, or recreational activities.
7. Training and Support: Provide training for volunteers to ensure they are equipped to support seniors effectively. Offer ongoing support and guidance to both seniors and volunteers throughout their participation in the program.
8. Evaluation and Assessments: Conduct periodic assessments to determine the effectiveness of the program and ensure seniors’ needs are being met. Gather feedback from both seniors and volunteers to continually improve the program’s offerings.

Program Benefits

1. Improved mental and emotional well-being for seniors through increased social interaction and companionship.
2. Reduced feelings of loneliness and isolation among seniors, leading to a better quality of life.
3. Opportunities for volunteers to make a positive impact on someone’s life while fostering personal growth and learning.
4. Enhanced community connections and increased awareness of seniors’ needs.
5. A sense of purpose and fulfillment for volunteers through meaningful relationships and acts of kindness.

The Adopt A Senior program will not only improve the lives of seniors but also empower community members to contribute to their well-being. By matching dedicated volunteers with seniors in need of support, we can create stronger communities and foster positive aging experiences. This program offers an excellent opportunity for individuals to make a lasting impact on the lives of seniors and help create a more compassionate and caring society.

Selection Process
Application: Candidates will be required to complete an online application form, including a personal statement explaining their interest in becoming a CNA and how it aligns with their long-term goals in the healthcare field.
Review: A scholarship committee consisting of representatives from The Doll Foundation will review all applications and select recipients based on their eligibility, academic achievements, financial need, and commitment to the CNA profession.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview to provide more information and demonstrate their passion and dedication for the healthcare field.

Scholarship Benefits:
Financial Assistance: Recipients of the scholarship will receive a monetary award to cover tuition costs related to a CNA certification program paid directly to their school of choice.
Mentorship and Support: Scholarship recipients will have access to mentorship opportunities through The Doll Foundation. Mentors will provide guidance, support, and advice throughout their CNA certification program and beyond.

Application and Deadlines

Application period: The application period will be determined based on the availability of funds and the number of deserving candidates.
Award Announcement: Notification of scholarship recipients will be provided on an ongoing basis throughout the year as awards are granted and funding becomes available.
Disbursement: Scholarship funds will be disbursed directly to the educational institution upon verification of enrollment.

Fundraising
The Doll Foundation will embark on fundraising initiatives to raise funds for the CNA scholarship program. This can include corporate sponsorships, individual donations, fundraising events, and grant applications.

Donors may be recognized through various avenues, such as an acknowledgment on The Doll Foundation’s website, social media platforms, or a mention in scholarship materials.

Evaluation

The scholarship program’s effectiveness will be evaluated periodically to assess the number of individuals who received the scholarship, their progress in the CNA program, and their career achievements in the healthcare field.
Feedback from scholarship recipients and partners will be incorporated to make necessary improvements and adjustments to the program.

By establishing the Doll Foundation CNA Scholarship Program, The Doll Foundation aims to support and empower individuals interested in pursuing a career as Certified Nurse Assistants, ultimately contributing to the overall improvement of the healthcare industry.

Program Components

• Caregiver Respite Vouchers: The foundation will provide eligible family caregivers with respite vouchers that can be redeemed at designated respite care facilities. These vouchers will cover the cost of care for a specified period, allowing the caregivers to take a break without financial constraints.
• Respite Care Provider Network: The foundation will partner with various respite care providers, ensuring a wide range of options for family caregivers to choose from. These providers will undergo a screening process to ensure the quality and appropriateness of the care they deliver.
• Caregiver Training and Education: The foundation will organize training sessions and workshops to equip caregivers with essential skills and knowledge required to provide care effectively. This program will focus on topics such as stress management, self-care, and communication techniques.
• Support Groups: The foundation will establish caregiver support groups where individuals can come together to share experiences, seek advice, and find emotional support from peers facing similar challenges. These support groups will be facilitated by trained professionals who can provide guidance and resources.
• Volunteer Respite Program: The foundation will recruit and train a team of volunteers who can provide short-term respite care services directly in the caregivers’ homes. By providing companionship and temporary relief to caregivers, this program will enable them to take a break without physically leaving their loved ones.

Program Eligibility Criteria

1. The program is open to family caregivers who are providing ongoing care for a loved one.
2. Care recipients must meet the foundation’s criteria for respite care eligibility.
3. Interested caregivers must submit an application providing information about their caregiving responsibilities and the need for respite.

Program Evaluation

The foundation will conduct regular evaluations to monitor the effectiveness of the Family Caregiver Respite Program. Feedback from caregivers, care recipients, and providers will be gathered through surveys and interviews to identify areas for improvement and measure the overall satisfaction of participants.

The Doll Foundation’s Family Caregiver Respite Program recognizes the immense dedication and sacrifices made by family caregivers. By offering respite and support, we aim to enhance their well-being and strengthen the bond between caregivers and care recipients. This program will be an invaluable resource for caregivers, empowering them to prioritize their own health and maintain a better quality of life while ensuring continued high-quality care for their loved ones.

• Problem-solving: Teaching caregivers how to analyze problems related to caregiving, generate and evaluate solutions, and make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of their patients or loved ones. 
• Emotional intelligence: Helping caregivers understand and manage their emotions in order to provide a supportive and empathetic environment for their patients or loved ones. This includes building healthy relationships, understanding the emotions of their patients or loved ones, and effectively managing challenging situations.
• Stress management: Equipping caregivers with strategies to identify and manage stressors related to caregiving. This includes self-care practices, stress reduction techniques, and accessing support systems when needed.
• Time management: Teaching caregivers how to effectively prioritize caregiving tasks, set goals, and utilize time efficiently to meet the needs of their patients or loved ones while also taking care of themselves.
• Financial literacy: Educating caregivers on budgeting, managing expenses related to themselves and/or caregiving, understanding financial resources available, and making informed financial decisions that benefit their patients or loved ones and themselves.
• Problem-solving: Helping caregivers identify challenges specific to their caregiving role and life in general and providing them with problem-solving strategies that consider the unique needs and circumstances of their patients, loved ones or themselves.
• Health and self-care: Promoting physical and mental well-being among caregivers by providing information on self-care practices, strategies for maintaining good health, and understanding the importance of nutrition and exercise. This includes encouraging caregivers to prioritize their own health in order to provide the best care for their patients or loved ones.
• The Doll Foundation mentorship program can also include workshops, educational resources, role-playing activities, and hands-on experiences. Caregivers can also receive ongoing support and guidance as they develop and apply these skills in their daily caregiving responsibilities.

 By allowing for a case-by-case assessment, applicants can receive assistance that aligns with their unique circumstances. Whether it’s help with rent, food, utilities, medical equipment, or other essential items, this emergency fund grant has the potential to make a significant impact.

 We want to ensure that the emergency fund grant can reach those who need it the most.

 To apply for the grant, seniors and caregivers or someone submitting on their behalf,  can visit www.dollfoundation.org and complete the online application form. They will need to provide relevant information about their situation and the specific bill or expense they need assistance with. Additionally, if they require support for essential items like food, they can indicate this in the application.

 Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by an approval committee. They will assess the urgency of the situation and the level of financial need to determine the appropriate grant amount. For bill payments, the approved funds will be paid directly on behalf of the recipient. In the case of groceries or other necessities, a gift card to a local grocery store will be provided.

 The approval process will prioritize those who are facing immediate financial crises. By streamlining the application process and providing direct assistance, we can act swiftly to support seniors and caregivers in need.

 This grant is available specifically for seniors, family caregivers directly caring for a senior or impaired loved one, and professional caregivers. If you fall into one of these categories, you are eligible to apply. 

 Additionally, it is important to show a verifiable need for the grant. This means providing clear and documented evidence of the financial hardship you are experiencing and how the grant will help alleviate it. This could include bills, invoices, or other supporting documents that demonstrate the urgent situation you’re facing.

 Remember, providing the necessary information will help the approval committee understand your unique circumstances and make a well-informed decision. So, make sure to gather all the required documentation before submitting your application.  

 Grant applications for this program are evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s important to submit your application as soon as possible to increase your chances of securing the grant, as funding is limited and available only until it is exhausted.

 Once your application is received, it will be reviewed by an approval committee. This committee consists of individuals who will carefully assess the merits of each request and vote on whether to approve the grant. They take their responsibility seriously and make an earnest effort to vet each applicant and their needs. 

The committee wants to ensure that the grants are awarded to those who truly require assistance and will benefit greatly from the support provided. So, it’s important to clearly present your case, express the financial need, and provide any supporting documentation that may strengthen your application.

Born of humble beginnings, Qiana developed a deep empathy for those facing adversity from an early age.  Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles along the way, Qiana’s relentless determination and unwavering belief in the power of compassion fueled her to make a difference. 

She earned her BBA in Entrepreneurship & Management from the Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston. Qiana is a proud graduate of the esteemed Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship, known as the top entrepreneurial program in the United States.

In 2016, Qiana founded The Doll Foundation, which is named after her late grandmother, affectionately known as “Mama Doll.”  It is a groundbreaking nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources, education, and support to seniors and caregivers. Through innovative programs and initiatives, The Doll Foundation aims to inspire and empower caregivers to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams as well as offers aid and support for elderly individuals.  Under Qiana’s visionary leadership, the foundation has successfully impacted the lives of many seniors and caregivers, fostering change and creating a brighter future for generations to come. 

In addition to her philanthropic endeavors, Qiana owns and manages Friendly Faces Senior Care an agency that provides personalized caregiver services for seniors who wish to remain in the comfort of their own homes and age gracefully with independence and dignity. 

Qiana James’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and advocacy. Her unwavering dedication to breaking barriers and creating a more equitable world has solidified her as a true humanitarian and a force to be reckoned with. 

Qiana is actively involved in various boards and advisory roles, including Cap of Houston, Cap of Pearland, the Pearland Chamber of Commerce Executive Board, the Bauer College of Business Advisory Board, and the Independent Home Care Alliance Advisory Board. She is also engaged in other charitable activities throughout Houston. 

Qiana’s strong spiritual foundation inspires her to volunteer countless hours in the ministry, helping others deepen their understanding of the Bible and their relationship with God. She values her marriage of over 15 years and considers her spouse her best friend.

He currently serves as an Investigator with Harris County and is the longtime Managing Director of CGS Digital Marketing, where he has spent more than 15 years leading digital strategy, branding, communications, technology, and marketing initiatives for businesses, nonprofit organizations, public-sector entities, and community organizations.

Sami’s technology and investigative background includes specialized training and experience in cybersecurity, digital forensics, cybercrime investigations, digital evidence, intelligence operations, human trafficking investigations, and crimes against children. His work reflects a particular interest in the intersection of technology and public safety and in addressing emerging digital threats.

His commitment to community and civic leadership extends across numerous organizations. He serves as a Fellow of the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA), an advisory member at San Jacinto College, and a member of the Houston Area Women’s Center Advisory Council. His previous leadership service includes the OPEN Houston Board of Directors, World Chamber of Commerce Texas Board of Directors, service as a City of Houston Planning & Development Commissioner, and nearly a decade as Technology Chairman for Rotary District 5890. He has also served in an advisory capacity with National Senior Campuses, Inc.

Through his combination of technology expertise, investigative experience, strategic communications, nonprofit involvement, and civic service, Sami brings a distinctive perspective in technology, public safety, organizational strategy, governance, and community engagement to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

She serves as CEO of Luhar Group of Companies, a Houston-based organization with interests in boutique retail and manufacturing, and has also been active in business development through ventures including Popbar. Dr. Pothuri has additionally served as Medical Director with Sona Dermatology & MedSpa, bringing years of clinical and healthcare leadership experience to her professional portfolio.

Her civic and nonprofit involvement is extensive. She serves on the Board of Directors of Avance Houston and is a Past President of the Indo-American Charity Foundation, where she has contributed to philanthropic initiatives serving families and communities throughout the Greater Houston area. She also serves as Vice President of Membership for the Houston Symphony League, supporting membership engagement and the League’s broader philanthropic and cultural mission.

Dr. Pothuri earned her Doctor of Medicine from KIMS Medical College and completed her Internal Medicine residency at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center, affiliated with Columbia University. She later pursued studies in Health and Healthcare Administration and Management at Rice University.

With a background that bridges medicine, entrepreneurship, nonprofit governance, philanthropy, and community leadership, Dr. Pothuri brings significant expertise in healthcare, business strategy, organizational leadership, fundraising, and community engagement to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

She currently serves as a Digital Marketing Specialist with CGS Digital Marketing, where she focuses on developing and implementing digital strategies tailored to business goals. Her work combines data-driven insights with creative storytelling to build campaigns designed to increase engagement, visibility, and brand impact.

Sasha also brings several years of marketing experience through her work with Microteq Engineering, Inc., giving her a broad perspective on marketing across different industries and business environments.

With a professional background in digital strategy, branding, campaign development, content, and audience engagement, Sasha brings valuable expertise in communications and marketing to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

Throughout his career, Joshua has overseen day-to-day business operations, route development, service delivery, customer relations, and expansion efforts. His companies provide automated mosquito control solutions throughout Texas and serve customers in additional states through product shipment and installation support.

Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Joshua worked with UPS, where he gained experience in route development, time management, logistics, and customer service.

Joshua studied General Studies at Houston City College and has also held commercial applicator certifications through the Texas Department of Agriculture.

With his background in entrepreneurship, operations, customer service, and business development, Joshua brings practical leadership experience and a strong service-oriented perspective to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

She specializes in consulting with clients and their attorneys through divorce proceedings and, most importantly, she assists clients with strategically rebuilding their finances post-divorce. With so much professional experience dealing with the trauma surrounding divorce, Terri has a real passion to advocate for her clients and help them find their own meaning of being financially independent. Her goal is to empower and help others be financially confident of both their financial stability and security.

Aside from Terri’s work in financial services, she is also passionate about community involvement and personal fashion. She spends her free time volunteering with organizations like Big Brother Big Sister where she actively serves as a Big Sister. She also is the social chair for Downtown Rotary Club of Houston and volunteers with Dress for Success. Terri is the Founder of Société- The Connection Scene, an organization that is helping to shape Houston’s resources to local business owners. Finally, she is considered by many thousands online to be a style influencer and she loves attending fashion shows that showcase emerging new designers in the Houston scene.

She is currently on the Survivor Advisory Board for the Texas Governor’s Sexual Assault Task Force. She has guest lectured at Rice University, Texas Woman’s and as an Associate Adjunct Professor at UH since 2008.

She was a spokesperson for TAASA’s, “Speak up Speak Out” billboard campaign and has been featured in many PSA’s for various Nonprofits as well as on local talk shows. She is currently in private practice and serves as a Board member on three separate non profits. She has written multiple magazine articles on Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and sex trafficking. She continues to mentor Master’s students as a Field Supervisor and is currently an LPC-S for several Post-graduate LPHAs. “Dr. Peta” as everyone knows her, is also a wife, mother, and immigrant from Jamaica, WI.

She is the Founder of Meraki Wayuu, a socially conscious brand featuring handmade artisanal bags and accessories sourced from the Wayuu community of La Guajira, Colombia. Through the brand, Carolina promotes cultural preservation, economic opportunity, and greater awareness of the artistry and traditions of the Wayuu people.

Carolina is also the Founder of Poder Hispano, an annual Hispanic Heritage Month community initiative that celebrates Houston’s diverse Latino community through family-friendly programming, local organizations, Latino-owned businesses, cultural activities, and community engagement.

Her professional background includes business development and community engagement, as well as project management experience with Texas Children’s Hospital. She also completed graduate-level clinical training with Houston Methodist Hospital, working with patients and families in an acute rehabilitation setting.

Carolina earned a Master of Social Work in Gerontology from the University of Houston and a bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Her education and experience reflect a strong commitment to older adults, families, community health, and culturally responsive service.

With her background in social work, aging services, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and multicultural advocacy, Carolina brings a valuable community-centered perspective to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

Samantha is also a published author of the Amazon bestseller YOU CAN and her second book, STRONGER. She is a member of The Rotary Club of Houston Skyline, where she was named the 2019 Rotarian of the Year. Her community involvement also includes serving as a Community Advisor for the Rotary District 5890 Task Force Against Human Trafficking, Co-Chair of the Childproof America National Education Summit, and a member of the Houston Rescue and Restore Coalition.

She has been recognized as an LCA Houston International Society Magazine Honoree and is a member of Community of Faith Church. Samantha also serves as Co-Host of the Find Her Seat Podcast.

In addition to her professional and community endeavors, Samantha is an accomplished runway model who has modeled locally and at New York Fashion Week, with Paris Fashion Week soon to be added to her growing fashion portfolio.

Samantha is a devoted wife and mother of two children who enjoys using her talents, experience, and platform to remain an active advocate for her community.

Dr. Demas is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Her professional background also includes service as an educator and school counselor, giving her a broad perspective on mental health across both educational and clinical settings.

She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Health/Medical Psychology from Northcentral University, advanced doctoral studies in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Walden University, a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Prairie View A&M University, an MBA in Management from LeTourneau University, and undergraduate degrees in Communication from the University of Houston and University of Houston-Downtown. She is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program.

Dr. Demas is actively involved in professional and community organizations, including the American Mental Health Counselors Association, Women in Sports and Events (WISE), and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She has also served on the Board of Directors of NAMI, supporting efforts to increase mental health awareness and education.

Her professional insights have been featured in Forbes, where she has contributed to conversations surrounding mental health, emotional wellness, leadership, and the unique pressures faced by high-performing individuals.

Through her clinical expertise, business leadership, educational background, and commitment to advocacy, Dr. Demas brings valuable insight in mental wellness, community engagement, and organizational leadership to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

He is the founder of Tahir Consulting, where he serves as an independent international management, business, and legal consultant. He previously served for many years as President of Tajji Petroleum, Inc., overseeing management, financial controls, legal matters, and consulting activities.

Zaf is deeply connected to the University of Houston, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering from the Cullen College of Engineering and later an Executive MBA in International Management from the C.T. Bauer College of Business. He also earned his Juris Doctor from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University.

His commitment to education and leadership continues through service as a Board Member of the University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering and as an Advisory Board Member for the University of Houston C.T. Bauer College of Business.

With a professional background spanning engineering, law, business, finance, and international consulting, Zaf brings a broad strategic perspective and significant governance experience to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

She is the Founder and President of Starworks Foundation, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities, providing resources, and making a meaningful impact in the community. Satavia is also the former owner of Star of Texas Hospice, where she spent many years leading the organization and building experience in healthcare administration, patient care, regulatory compliance, and organizational leadership.

Her background as both a registered nurse and healthcare executive gives her a unique understanding of the clinical and operational sides of care. She also holds a Master of Business Administration, combining her healthcare expertise with strong business and leadership experience.

Throughout her career, Satavia has demonstrated a commitment to serving others, developing sustainable organizations, and using her professional experience to strengthen the communities around her.

Satavia brings valuable expertise in healthcare leadership, nonprofit development, business operations, and community engagement to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

Throughout her career at the University of Houston, Katina has held progressively senior leadership positions, including Assistant Vice President/Assistant Vice Chancellor for Campus Solutions, Executive Director of Campus Solutions, Executive Director of Enrollment Management Production Support, Application Director, and Application Lead. Her extensive experience spans strategic planning, operational leadership, technology implementation, enrollment management, and administrative systems.

Katina began her career at the University of Houston while still a student and has continued to grow professionally within the institution for more than three decades. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Houston and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston–Victoria, now Texas A&M University–Victoria.

With a career defined by leadership, dedication, and service, Katina brings a wealth of experience in organizational management, strategic operations, and higher education administration to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.

She currently works as an Energy Consultant with J&H Energy Consultants, helping Texas businesses and homeowners reduce electricity costs through strategic energy procurement, supplier comparisons, renewal planning, and energy-efficiency solutions. She also serves as Director of Client Services with Globecreative, bringing experience in marketing, brand partnerships, storytelling, and client engagement.

Jennifer is the Founder of Sebas Foundation, an organization focused on highlighting the success stories of refugees and supporting community-based initiatives. Through the foundation, she has also led fundraising efforts for families impacted by disaster and hardship.

A professionally trained chef and Certified Culinarian, Jennifer earned her bachelor’s degree in Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts–Austin. Her culinary career has included restaurant management, food service, and entrepreneurship through Jenny On the Go 365, her multifaceted culinary services company.

With experience that crosses business, culinary arts, nonprofit leadership, marketing, and energy consulting, Jennifer brings a creative, entrepreneurial, and community-focused perspective to The Doll Foundation Board of Directors.