In September 2024, Kiara officially joined New Hope as the first-ever Mental Health Ambassador. In this groundbreaking role, she uses her lived experiences to create social media content focused on mental health issues. Kiara also engages in speaking engagements with New Hope’s current residents and staff, offering one-on-one conversations and leading small group discussions to provide support and encouragement.
Kiara Grace is a wife, a mother, and a woman who has transformed her life through resilience and perseverance. While her family is a central part of her identity, Kiara's journey extends beyond those roles. Overcoming severe mental health challenges in her adolescence, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and attempts, Kiara was admitted to psychiatric hospitals eight times and spent time in group homes and residential facilities before finding healing at New Hope.
After completing the New Hope program nearly 15 years ago, Kiara returned to high school, excelling and graduating at the top of her class. Today, as an Event & Marketing Specialist at Wake Technical Community College, Kiara helps students confidently pursue their careers, driven by her passion for guiding others toward success.
In addition to her role at Wake Tech, she is pursuing a master’s degree in clinical psychology with a focus on adolescent psychology at North Carolina Central University. Kiara is committed to supporting young people and families in crisis by sharing her continued story and relationship with mental health, showing that there is always a ‘brightside’ to mental health. Through transparency, compassion, and a "Human First" mentality, she strives to empower and positively impact those she serves.