Rhonda Chandler
Rhonda Chandler is the CEO and founder of the nonprofit Lovin' the Skin I'm In. The faith-based nonprofit exists to empower and uplift Black & Brown girls (ages 7-18+) in N.E. Wisconsin by providing access and exposure to opportunities that develop their talents, gifts, and leadership skills.
Chandler started the organization in 2020 after realizing the challenges her children were facing, including bullying, racist comments, racial slurs. or microaggressions. The group started with 6-8 young ladies and now has grown close to 100. Chandler brings in mentors from across the state and also holds a parental support group.
The nonprofit provides group meetings and volunteering outings. It works with schools like Howe Elementary School, Franklin Middle, Foxview Intermediate School and Preble High to offer weekly groups for fourth grade through high school.
She was recently honored by Foundations Health and Wholeness with an Ethics in Action Award. Prior to starting her nonprofit, Rhonda did social work in Green Bay and volunteered with Service League of Green Bay serving underprivileged youth.
Rhonda embodies several pillars of Inspire Change Initiative. Through the Education pillar she provides access and exposure to opportunities to Black & Brown girls to develop their talents, gifts and leadership skills. She models the Economic Advancement pillar in her start up of Lovin' the Skin I'm In and supporting other entrepreneurs like Amy Wood and her product the Stay Stick for black haircare. Chandler lives her passion but also shares it speaking to various groups.
Earlier this year, Lovin' the Skin I'm In held their first Celebration of Black Women Brunch. She feels a sense of purpose helping other African Americans like herself who call Wisconsin home.
"The younger we can reach these girls and give them the tools that they need when these issues arise the better," Chandler said. "We want them to be physically, emotionally, and mentally healthy and knowing that they are enough, that they're valued, and that they're loved."