Dr. Graham built the bridge. Together, we will carry her vision forward.

More than 20 years ago, Dr. Carolyn Graham saw a young mother standing at a crossroads—preparing to transition from foster care with a young child, dreams for her future, and too little support to help her reach them.

Dr. Graham believed young mothers needed a bridge between where they were and where they dreamed of going. That vision became The Mary Elizabeth House.

This year, as we celebrate what would have been Dr. Graham’s 80th birthday, TMEH is entering a period of renewal and revitalization—strengthening our residential program, rebuilding robust programming and partnerships, deepening our two-generation approach, and charting new ways to support young mothers and children.

We honor Dr. Graham not simply by preserving what she built, but by continuing what she started: listening to young families, responding to what they need, and having the courage to build for their future.

The Bridge Forward: Dr. Graham’s Legacy invites our community to help build this next chapter.

A bridge to stable housing.
A bridge to healing and opportunity.
A bridge to stronger families.
A bridge to the future young mothers envision for themselves and their children.

Dr. Graham built the bridge. Together, we will carry her vision forward.