Doula training scholarships are necessary in the fight to advance birth equity. Let's unpack the reasons for this. First of all, reproductive justice means the right to have a child, the right to not have a child, and the right to parent the children we have in safe environments. In the absence of justice for all, we must do everything we can to help our communities take back their freedom. Access is a key issue. So let's dive into the reasons behind offering doula training scholarships, how they are funded, and why they are currently on temporary pause at DTI.
Why Offer Doula Training Scholarships?
Doulas play a crucial role in providing emotional, physical, and informational support to birthing individuals. However, access to doula training programs can be limited for many due to financial constraints. By offering scholarships, we aim to make doula training more accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, ultimately increasing the presence of doulas in underserved communities. Everyone deserves access to doula support from someone who understands their lived experience and helps them to feel safe and secure during a vulnerable time. As doulas we all have the capability to empathize fully, but let's put the autonomy into the hands of the birthing person, so they can choose the doula who makes them feel at home and completely cared for.
How Are Our Scholarships Funded?
DTI's doula training scholarships have traditionally been funded based on a pay-it-forward model. This means that doula students who have invested financially in their training contribute back to the scholarship fund. This sustainable model allows us to continue offering scholarships to those in need, creating a cycle of support within the DTI doula community. With registration numbers at an all-time low, continuing with the pace of offering at least 60 scholarships per year has proven difficult. As the business incurs expenses to continue offering a high caliber of education, we must manage volume and avoid overtaxing the system and its supporting members.
Why Are Our Scholarships Currently on Pause?
Currently, our scholarships are on pause as we seek additional funding sources to support the program. As the demand for doula services grows and the awareness of birth equity issues increases, the need for trained doulas becomes more critical. We are actively working to secure funding to resume our scholarship program and continue our mission of advancing birth equity through accessible doula training.
By offering doula training scholarships, we are not only investing in the future of birth support but also working towards a more equitable and inclusive birth experience for all individuals. Stay tuned for updates on our scholarship program and how you can support our efforts in advancing birth equity.