Amber Garrelts, President, Amber Garrelts Foundation
Amber Garrelts is a devoted mother of two and the passionate co-founder of the Amber Garrelts Foundation. Born with birth defects, Amber faced numerous challenges growing up, but through sheer willpower and the unwavering support of her family, she overcame these obstacles to become a beacon of hope for others.
Amber is also the host of the podcast "Beyond The Defects: Amber's Journey," which is published twice a week. In this podcast, she shares her personal experiences and interviews individuals and family members who have witnessed or experienced birth defects in one way or another. Through these powerful conversations, Amber sheds light on the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of those living with disabilities.
Driven by her own experiences of battling stigma and navigating the complexities of healthcare, Amber has vowed to be a voice for individuals living with birth defects and disabilities. She is dedicated to breaking down barriers, raising awareness, and ensuring that everyone has access to the care and support they deserve. Through her foundation and podcast, Amber continues to inspire and empower others, turning her personal journey into a powerful force for change.
Young Akpasubi | Executive Director & Secretary
Young Akpasubi is the Executive Director and Secretary of the Amber Garrelts Foundation, where he plays a pivotal role in guiding the organization’s mission and operations. As a co-founder, Young is deeply committed to assisting individuals living with birth defects and disabilities, working tirelessly to ensure they receive the support and care they need.
Sharing Amber's passion for eliminating stigma and removing barriers to healthcare, Young has dedicated himself to advocating for a world where no one faces discrimination or unnecessary hurdles in accessing essential services. His leadership and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in driving the foundation's efforts to create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Through his work, Young continues to champion the rights and well-being of those impacted by birth defects, making a lasting impact on countless lives.
Parker Gray | Board Member & Outreach Director
Parker Gray is a committed and influential member of the Board of Directors at the Amber Garrelts Foundation, where he also serves as the Outreach Director. With a deep passion for supporting individuals living with birth defects and disabilities, Parker plays a crucial role in expanding the foundation's reach, ensuring that those in need are connected with vital resources and services.
In his role as Outreach Director, Parker is at the forefront of the foundation's community engagement efforts. He spearheads initiatives aimed at raising awareness, fostering inclusivity, and building strong networks of support for individuals and families affected by birth defects and disabilities. His work is driven by a fundamental belief that everyone, regardless of their abilities, deserves to be treated with love, care, and respect. This conviction fuels his dedication to breaking down societal barriers and promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding.
