Our Ecosystem

The Conner Equity Hub Foundation is more than a single initiative—it’s an ecosystem. Each branch of our work is rooted in a shared mission: to preserve legacy, advance equity, and empower generations. Together, these programs create a living network of health, healing, education, advocacy, and storytelling.

“One mission, many branches.”

Branch 1: The BLACK Collaborative Inc. (Nonprofit)
The nonprofit arm of the Hub, The BLACK Collaborative (Birth & Lactation Agents of Change) advances maternal–infant equity at the grassroots level through direct community programs, events, and advocacy campaigns.

Health Block Party: Annual community event bringing families together for free screenings, health education, safe sleep demonstrations, and family fun. Anchored in the THRIVE 2025 initiative to normalize talk therapy and healing in Black communities.
Community Care Closet: Provides free baby essentials, including clothing, diapers, wipes, formula, and breastfeeding supplies, to families in need—a visible symbol of mutual aid and community resilience.
Clear the Crib Campaign: Safe sleep education initiative that combines raffles, community workshops, and resource distribution to reduce infant mortality in Cincinnati.

Learn more about The BLACK Collaborative →

Branch 5: Conner Literary Works

Dr. Natashia L. Conner’s published works are not just stories—they are part of the Foundation’s legacy. Through memoirs, scholarship, and guides, these works inform, inspire, and preserve health equity narratives.

Book Catalog:
- Healed & Haunted: The Weight I Never Meant to Carry (memoir)
- If Black Titties Could Talk: Reclaiming the Source (memoir + advocacy)
- Black Mothers’ Birthing Center Experiences and Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices (scholarly research)
- BREAST 4 Babes Toolkit (community guide)
Speaking Engagements: Keynotes, lectures, and panels at conferences worldwide on breastfeeding equity, maternal-infant health, and social justice.
Publishing & Future Imprint: Plans to expand into publishing other equity-centered works and anthologies from community voices and resource distribution to reduce infant mortality in Cincinnati.

Branch 2: RHEcorp (Benefit LLC)

The equity-driven consulting and training arm of the Hub, RHEcorp (Racial & Health Equity Services LLC) delivers culturally grounded education, mentorship, and research services to strengthen systems of care.

HEAL Academy
Professional development platform offering:
- Clinical Breastfeeding Management Counselor (C-BMC) certification course
- IBCLC mentorship program
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion training with a focus on social determinants of health (SDOHs)
Research Services (BREAST 4 Babes & Consulting)
- BREAST 4 Babes initiative strengthens awareness and advocacy around breastfeeding inequities.
- Qualitative research, media advocacy, and consulting services for health systems, universities, and nonprofits.

Browse Conner Literary Works →

Branch 4: Rootwork Project (Arts & Advocacy)

The arts and advocacy branch of the Hub, the Rootwork Project, empowers youth and communities to use art as a tool for healing and policy change.

Youth Programs: Arts-based workshops helping young people advocate for health and safety in their neighborhoods.
Art Exhibits: Storytelling projects highlighting Black voices and lived experiences.
Partnerships: Collaborations with institutions like the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to bridge art and equity.

Discover the Rootwork Project →

Explore training & research services →

Branch 3: Center of Eden (Vision for Maternal-Infant Hub)

A future hub for holistic maternal–infant care, the Center of Eden is envisioned as a sanctuary where clinical excellence, cultural humility, and community healing converge.

Planned Services:
- Lactation & perinatal care
- Mental health & talk therapy
- Family wellness coaching
- Fatherhood support services
Renderings & Prototypes: Conceptual designs for a brick-and-mortar space rooted in heritage, nature, and healing.
Fundraising Goals: Strategic capital campaign to secure land, develop facilities, and seed endowment funds for sustainability.

See the vision for the Center of Eden →