Our Founder & Visionary
Carol Edeza, Founder & Executive Director
Carol Edeza's story is a remarkable testament to overcoming adversity and breaking through societal barriers. Carol was born and raised in Salinas, California.
Her roots run deep in the Salinas Valley, where her family's journey began in the 1950s when her grandfather arrived in the United States as part of the bracero program. Her parents both Mexican immigrants, who met in Salinas at a United Farm Workers rally in the 1970s.
She was in the juvenile justice system by the age of 13 and became a teen mom at just 15 years old. Carol's determination for a better life and an opportunity through a youth employment program while incarcerated as a youth allowed her to begin a career in human services.
From housing services, youth violence intervention, community health services, and programs development and management. Carol has served her community for 22 years.
She has also served as a foster parent, volunteered for Monterey County Juvenile Hall Ministries, served on the Inmate Family Council at Salinas Valley State Prison, and served on the Board of Directors for Wonder Wood Ranch, currently serving on their Advisory Committee.
Her mission is to build resilience through mentorship, opportunities and resources. With a deep passion to mentor those in the same situations she was in, her goal is to equip young mothers with the tools they need to flourish.
Carol is a proud mother of 5, when she's not working on Teen Moms Inc, she can be found making memories with her children, spending time with loved ones or cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs.