Empowering Doulas. Transforming Maternal Health in Arkansas.
Join a statewide movement supporting families, elevating birth workers, and improving outcomes—one birth at a time.
The Hands That Hold Arkansas Awards
Honoring the heart of birthwork across Arkansas
The Hands That Hold Arkansas Awards honor the birth workers and maternal health professionals who make Arkansas a safer, more compassionate place for families. These awards celebrate the doulas, OBGYNs, midwives, IBCLCs, CLCs, breastfeeding peer counselors, and community supporters whose hands guide families through some of life’s most transformative moments.
We invite the public to nominate individuals who demonstrate:
Exceptional compassion and care
Commitment to maternal health equity
Advocacy for families and communities
Collaboration across the birth and medical community
Cultural humility and respect
Dedication to improving outcomes for Arkansas families
Through these awards, we uplift the stories that often go untold — the quiet acts of courage, the steady presence in moments of vulnerability, and the skilled hands that hold families with dignity and love.
Nominations are open to all Arkansans.
Help us honor the people who help us thrive.
Who We Are
The Doula Alliance of Arkansas is a statewide membership organization working to improve maternal health by supporting and advancing the doula profession. We believe every family deserves access to compassionate, culturally responsive care during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Why Doula Care Is Essential
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Improved Birth Outcomes
In Arkansas, doula-supported births are associated with higher birth weights, reduced use of interventions, and increased rates of breastfeeding. Families supported by doulas often experience shorter labors and fewer complications—especially in underserved communities across Little Rock and Pine Bluff.
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Reduced Maternal Mortality
Arkansas has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the U.S., and 95% of maternal deaths in the state are considered preventable. Access to culturally competent doulas offers a vital layer of advocacy, education, and emotional support that helps close these life-threatening gaps—particularly in Black and rural populations.
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Emotional & Physical Support
Doulas provide continuous, hands-on care during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum—offering emotional reassurance, pain management techniques, and informed decision-making support. In regions like Hot Springs and beyond, this trusted presence can dramatically reduce stress and improve overall birthing experiences.
GET INVOLVED
Doula Membership
For certified or aspiring doulas
Includes directory listing, networking, education
Community Partnerships
For organizations, businesses, and supporters
Multiple membership tiers with benefits
Stay Connected. Support the Shift in
Maternal Health Across Arkansas.
Be part of the growing movement to transform maternal health outcomes in Arkansas through the power of doula care. Whether you're a birth worker, healthcare provider, community advocate, or supporter, your voice matters. Join our mailing list to receive updates on upcoming events, policy efforts, training opportunities, and ways to support families in Little Rock, Pine Bluff, Hot Springs, and beyond.
Together, we’re building a future where every birth is respected, supported, and empowered.