We LOVE a good story, especially when it’s a heartwarming one. Below, you’ll hear some amazing stories from incredible business owners, practitioners, and creatives and artists.

Robert Mack

I was making a purchase at the Beverly Center in Beverly Hills. As I was leaving the store, a gentleman stopped me on the street. He complimented me on my outfit, and I thanked him. Read more>>

Needah Kavallierou

I started Wild Heart Mamas right out of the pandemic. Moms had no place to go and socialize, we had parented in isolation for far too long, so I decided to start meeting at the park. I never thought that it would turn into what it is today, a safe space for parents to be themselves with no pressures or commitments, and have fun. Read more>>

Jade Henderson

Animal-assisted therapy offers a host of remarkable benefits, particularly within the realm of occupational therapy. The presence of animals, like dogs, enhances motivation and engagement, encouraging individuals to actively participate in therapy sessions. This unique approach not only promotes physical activity and coordination but also fosters sensory stimulation and cognitive skills. The tactile interactions and bonding moments with animals aid in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, facilitating emotional regulation and mental well-being. In the realm of occupational therapy, animal-assisted therapy becomes a powerful tool for enhancing functional independence, fine and gross motor skills, and overall quality of life, exemplifying the seamless harmony between the therapeutic world and the companionship of our four-legged friends. Read more>>

Augusta O’Reilly

This heartwarming story is a compilation of similar stories that have stayed with me throughout my career. During my work as an embedded veterinary social worker in a large specialty hospital, I provided emotional support to clients that were experiencing pet loss and related grief. During my time there were certain clients that stood out more then others, ones that have lost their “heart pet”, ones that navigated large life changes, trauma, and adulthood and now the loss of their family member that was by their side the whole time. Read more>>

Stevie Merino

The most heartwarming stories from my work as a doula have been watching my doula babies grow and clients turning into friends. Last year was the opening of our community art exhibit hosted by birthworkers of Color x SovernLA called, “Ceremonies: Pregnancy, birthwork, and life” and I got the sweetest photo of some doula babies and former clients– two of which were featured artists! It’s already such a blessing to have the honor to support people in such an intimate time in their lives as pregnancy, birth, postpartum but to be able to continue to foster those relationships beyond is truly heartwarming. I hold all of my clients so closely in my heart and wish all of the good things for them, whether our relationship ends after my services are complete or if we continue to be in community. Another that stands out is being fed cultural foods by families I work with, eating and being fed is such a cultural way of showing love, and my heart bursts when people share and break bread with me. The last one is clients sharing my name in rooms and opportunities, hearing referrals or kind words about their time working with me, is so heartwarming and kind. My clients are truly the best! Read more>>

Sirena Dudgeon

I spend a lot of time with my students and clients, one on one, getting to know their needs, their desires, their challenges, and especially their heart. In my field of astrology and yoga, I often get to know someone on a very personal level, either through exploring their natal chart, writing their personalized horoscope, or speaking to them weekly before or after yoga class. My students and clients keep coming back, for the authenticity, for the connection, and especially for the understanding. Read more>>

Heather Bahlmann Jess Lindsley

Hey Birdie was created to bring women together. When we began, being together wasn’t an option. We were in the middle of a pandemic and the need to gather was emminent. Our intention is to not simply gather for the sake of gathering, but to hold space for one another that is free of judgement and full of support and compassion – both for oneself and each other. Read more>>

Teresa Stivers

Twenty years ago, I met a young foster youth named Rajah. He was referred to Walden Family Services at 12 as a last-ditch resort because his County social worker thought he was on the path to incarceration, homelessness, or worse. Walden placed him with a loving family and a fantastic social worker to ensure he had the skills to become a successful, independent adult. Nationally, less than three percent of former foster youth obtain their bachelor’s degree. Rajah defied those odds. After graduating from college, Rajah began to work in the nonprofit field to help other youth like him. Today, he is a loving father who has broken the child abuse and neglect cycle. He serves on the board of directors for Walden Family Services, ensuring our high-quality programs continue to meet the needs of children, youth, and families. He has come full circle from the frightened young foster youth who has grown into a successful contributing member of his community. Since 1976, Walden Family Services has championed the vision that every child who enters foster care deserves the opportunity to realize their full human potential. Rajah exemplifies our mission and continues to work to ensure other youths have the same opportunity to become successful adults. We could not be more proud of Rajah and all the Walden youth who have persevered. Read more>>

Justin Houman

Every day in my role as a Men’s Health Urologist, I have the incredible privilege of being a part of life’s most miraculous journeys. The story I’m about to share is one that truly touched my heart and reaffirmed my commitment to helping couples achieve their dream of parenthood. Read more>>