About
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower, educate, and support young women transitioning out of the foster care system, equipping them with the resources needed to achieve financial independence and self-sufficiency.
Our Vision
Our vision is for every young woman to be seen, heard, and empowered, leading to success and a better quality of life upon aging out of the foster care system.
Board of Directors
President/CVO
CFO
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Administrator
Chairman of the Board
Darlene Smith
​Darlene Smith, Apostle and serial entrepreneur, has dedicated over 30 years to serving in ministry and the marketplace. As a gifted healing and deliverance minister, she has impacted countless lives through her work. Darlene is the CEO and President of Aging Out with Grace Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that supports young women transitioning out of the foster care system. Her passion for transforming the lives of these women reflects her deep commitment to the mission God has entrusted to her. Additionally, she owns DRS Transportation, a service that provides vital transportation for individuals to day programs, work, and medical appointments.
Mary Rudolph
Mary offers the committee over 10 years of administrative excellence, education, organizational skills, research expertise, and event planning experience. She currently serves as the Financial Center Manager of the Fifth Third Bank Elyria Financial Center.
Melissa Dyess
Melissa Dyess brings over a decade of expertise in administrative support and a proven track record of serving on nonprofit boards. Her experience in managing operations and providing essential organizational support has been invaluable to the causes she champions. Passionate about giving back to her community, Melissa has dedicated her career to empowering young women, especially those transitioning out of the foster care system. Her commitment to Aging Out with Grace reflects her desire to make a lasting impact by providing structure, resources, and hope for a brighter future.
Rod Reed
Rod Reed is a licensed and ordained minister, chemical dependency counselor, and personal development coach with over 30 years of service to the recovery community. Licensed in 1994 and ordained in 2005, he has held roles as a youth pastor and Director of Christian Education at God’s Tabernacle of Faith Church. With 20+ years of experience in recovery support, he currently serves as a licensed chemical dependency counselor assistant. Reed is also the founder of A More Excellent Way to Live Inc., a nonprofit helping individuals with substance use and mental health challenges. He has been an entrepreneur since 2005.