Our Story
Growth was never meant to happen alone.
I created The Best Friends Collective from lived experiences. There were times in my life when I needed support, and it came from different placesβ friends, family, even strangers. Those moments stayed with me. They showed me how powerful it is when someone simply shows up for you.
One of the people who embodied that kind of support was my friend Missy. Years ago, when I moved into a new home, there were artificial flowers in the yard. I didnβt think much of itβbut she did, and would not stand for it. That same day, she took them out, took me to Lowes, helped me pick out real flowers, soil, and everything we needed. Then, she came back, got down in the dirt with me, and taught me how to plant them. What seemed like a small act turned into something much bigger.
It sparked something in me, love for growth, for nurturing something real, and for watching it become something beautiful over time. That moment has always stayed with me. It represents more than gardening. It represents care, intention, and showing up for someone in a way that helps them grow.
The Best Friends Collective was created from that same spirit. Itβs about building a community where women feel supported, where they have access to resources, and where they are encouraged to growβthrough connection, confidence, healing, and opportunity. When women are supported, they grow; and when they grow, it creates a ripple effect that reaches far beyond them.
Yolanda Parker
Founder
An Angelβs Story
Armincie βMissyβ Elliott
February 14, 1975 - June 7, 2025.
This didnβt just come from an ideaβ
it came from love.
My friend Missy had a way of showing up for people that stayed with me.
The kind of presence that made you feel seen, supported, and not alone.
That spirit lives on in everything weβre buildingβ
in how we connect,
how we support one another,
and the spaces weβre creating together.
This is legacy. She planted something in us all, and love like hers never really leaves us.π
Our Team
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Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Ebony helps turn BFCβs vision into action. As Chief Operations Officer, she supports organizational planning, coordination, partnerships, and the day-to-day work that keeps the Collective moving forward. A natural organizer and problem-solver, Ebony brings structure, thoughtful leadership, and a collaborative spirit to the team.
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Secretary
Ina helps keep BFC organized, connected, and accountable. As Secretary, she supports board records, documentation, communication, and organizational continuity. Her thoughtful and dependable approach helps ensure important details are captured and the work of the Collective stays aligned.
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Community Impact & Strategic Support
Melissa helps strengthen the connection between BFC and the community we serve. She supports outreach, relationship-building, engagement, and strategic efforts that help turn ideas into meaningful community impact. Her role helps ensure our work remains connected to the people and communities at the heart of our mission.
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Treasurer
Lakesha provides financial stewardship and accountability for BFC. As Treasurer, she helps oversee financial records, budgeting, reporting, and the responsible use of organizational resources. Her background in finance, tax preparation, and military service brings discipline, attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility to the Collective.
