Martha's Foundation marks 15 years supporting teen mothers in Tulsa

Martha’s Foundation is celebrating 15 years of supporting pregnant and teen mothers, providing housing, life skills training, and educational guidance tailored to each individual.

Foundation Background

Founded in August 2010 by nurse Myrtle Watson, Martha’s Foundation was inspired by Watson’s work with the Margaret Hudson Program.

The nonprofit currently operates out of a rented three-bedroom home that opened in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic depleted much of its initial funding, and Watson is now fundraising to secure a permanent home for the organization.

Programs and Impact

Martha’s Foundation empowers young women by teaching essential life and parenting skills while emphasizing the importance of completing their education.

Since its founding, the program has directly impacted approximately 40 young women.

According to World Population View, Oklahoma has the fourth-highest teen pregnancy rate in the U.S., highlighting the ongoing need for support programs like Martha’s Foundation.

Leadership

Carol Saylor, Board President of Martha’s Foundation, first met Watson when she was a 16-year-old pregnant at the Margaret Hudson Program.

Today, Saylor is a mother of three and holds a biotechnology degree from Tulsa Community College, a bachelor’s degree in microbiology and biological sciences from Oklahoma State University, and certifications in functional nutrition and master herbalism.

15th Anniversary Celebration

The foundation’s 15th Anniversary Celebration will be held Saturday, August 16, from 10 a.m. to noon at Rudisill Library, 1520 North Hartford Ave., Tulsa.

The event will honor the foundation’s legacy and raise funds for a permanent home.

Motivational speaker Rick Martin, a three-time Peabody Award-winning journalist, will speak about trauma, resilience, and the power of second chances, drawing from his own near-fatal battle with COVID-19.

Get Involved

Martha’s Foundation encourages the community to support its mission. More information is available on its Facebook page or by contacting marketing.marthasfoundation@gmail.com or (539) 867-1424.

Rick Martin’s work can be explored at rickmartinmedia.com.