2024 Our Earth CBPA Scholarship Program

New Mexico Doula Association

Welcome to a Transformative Journey in Maternal Healthcare

About the Program

The New Mexico Doula Association introduces the Our Earth Certified Birth and Postpartum Attendant (CBPA) Scholarship Program for the January 2024 cohort. This program centers on shifting maternal healthcare to better serve Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and other historically underrepresented communities.

Our Mission and Vision

We strive to continue the legacy of community-based doula services, advocating for systemic healthcare changes to ensure equitable access and outcomes for all. We believe in providing affordable, gender-affirming, and culturally humble support throughout reproductive experiences.


Why This Program Is Critical

With Medicaid's upcoming coverage of doula services by July 1, 2024, we aim to build a robust doula workforce, ready to support families across New Mexico and in the many maternity care deserts. This program is a pivotal step in positively shifting maternal and infant health outcomes in our state.


Program Details

  • Duration: January 12th - April 26th, 2024
  • Format: Virtual classes on Friday evenings, 6 - 8 pm, and an in-person retreat for hands-on experience (expenses paid)
  • Requirements: Supporting two (2) Pregnant and two (2) Postpartum Relatives/Clients for program completion
  • Support: Financial assistance for study time, certification process, and service provision
  • Doula Bag: Participants receive a bag filled with essential supplies

Meet your Instructor: Tintawi Kaigziabiher

Founder of Our Earth Certified Birth & Postpartum Attendant training program and Ile Ife.

Application Process and Timeline

  • Deadline: December 22nd or upon reaching 75 applications, whichever comes first
  • Review Process: Rolling evaluation
  • Initial Interviews: With 2023 Cohort #1 students
  • Group Interviews: Week of December 25th - 29th, with Melissa Lopez-Sullivan, Danica Terrones, and Our Earth CBPA Founder Tintawi Kaigziabiher.
  • Selection Committee Review: January 2nd, 2024
  • Announcements: All applicants notified by January 3rd, 2024

Mandatory Start: January 12th, 2024, 6-8 pm


Scholarship Agreement

  • Commitment: Complete all classes and retreat activities
  • Attendance: One absence allowed, additional absences require arrangements
  • Certification Deadline: Within 6 months post-completion
  • Repayment Clause: Failure to complete the program requires repaying the $4,000 scholarship

Who Should Apply

We encourage individuals from all NM counties, especially from areas with limited maternal healthcare, to apply. No prior experience is needed, but a passion for equity in care is essential. Community health workers, peer support workers, home visitors, childcare providers, and bilingual/multilingual speakers, including ASL users, community interpreters, are encouraged to cross-train as doulas.

Application Instructions

  • Download the PDF application form and prepare your responses.
  • Collect two letters of reference: one personal and one professional.
  • Submit the completed application via the online link by the deadline.

Join Us

Apply now and be part of this groundbreaking initiative to ensure every birthing person in New Mexico receives the care and respect they deserve.

We are here to support and guide you on this important journey.

 

Community Partnerships

  • This project has been made possible by a grant from UnitedHealthcare.
  • Ile Ife is the non-profit organization hosting this doula training program.
  • Bold Futures is a collaborating partner on this project.