Just Opened

It Takes A Village

by Jakob Dorof

Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 217 W. Girard Ave., 215-740-7621, itavphilly.org

During an early visit to the maternity ward, Mia A. Bird found herself appalled by the staff's cruel disregard for a nearby patient in labor. The experience of overhearing a woman struggle through childbirth alone, as well as the challenges faced after the birth of Bird's daughter, Chidima, inspired her to found It Takes A Village, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding new and expectant parents.

Based out of her West Mount Airy apartment for its first year of operation, It Takes A Village has recently moved with Bird's family to Northern Liberties. Pocketed between Second and Third streets, the new Girard office houses the Village's many free community services, including childbirth education classes, parent support groups and nutritional awareness seminars. On the ground floor, an austere green interior reflects the Village's eco-consciousness (the Birds are relying on compact fluorescent bulbs for their lighting needs, and installed a register that wastes minimal paper), and the trinkets, artifacts and literature that line the walls — all sold for fundraising — not only promote environmental responsibility, but also represent and embrace the many diverse cultures found in Philadelphia. There is a play area and changing station for children in the back, as well as a basement, where workshops and free HIV tests will soon be offered.

"But this isn't a handout, it's an equal exchange," Bird insists. "We're getting help, too." Indeed, Bird and the Village board — which includes her husband Jermaine — work closely with local organizations. Some are specific to parenting, such as the Maternal Wellness Center, and others broader in scope, including ActionAIDS and the Friends Neighborhood Guild. "After all," says Bird, "you can't fight to help people." To do that, it takes a village.