About Us
The Legacy of a Mother's Love: The Sterling Smiles Foundation
The Sterling Smiles Foundation, founded by licensed clinical social worker Avis K. Brown, empowers families through comprehensive wellness support. Named in honor of her son Sterling, whose emphasis on self-care inspired our mission, we provide vital resources across mental, financial, and physical wellbeing.
Our foundation creates safe spaces where women, parents, and children access compassionate support and practical tools for building resilient families. Through professional expertise and personal understanding, we help every individual discover the transformative power of self-care, spreading Sterling's legacy of strength and hope throughout our community.
Our Story
In the heart of every great mission lies a profound personal journey. For Avis K. Brown, a licensed clinical social worker with over thirty years of experience, that journey began with the loving wisdom of her son Sterling and transformed through loss into a beacon of hope for others.
"You do so much for others, Mom, but don't forget to take care of yourself." These words, spoken by Sterling, would become more than just a son's caring reminder to his mother—they would evolve into the foundational principle of an organization dedicated to changing lives through self-care and wellness.
Sterling's profound understanding of the importance of self-care, particularly for those who dedicate their lives to helping others, left an indelible mark on his mother's heart. When his untimely passing shook Avis's world, these words resonated even more deeply, becoming both a comfort and a calling.
Through the depths of grief, Avis discovered a powerful truth: self-care wasn't just a luxury—it was essential for healing and resilience. As she navigated her own path toward healing, she found strength in Sterling's wisdom, learning to live victoriously even in the face of profound loss. This personal transformation revealed a greater purpose: the opportunity to share these vital lessons with others who might be struggling to prioritize their own well-being.
The Sterling Smiles Foundation emerged from this realization, combining Avis's professional expertise as a licensed clinical social worker and wellness coach with the deep personal insights gained from her journey. The foundation's mission extends beyond simple self-care advocacy—it represents a commitment to honoring Sterling's legacy by helping others understand that caring for oneself is not an act of selfishness, but rather a crucial step toward building a resilient and fulfilling life.
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