Meet Janelle Basham, BraveLove's Executive Director, who lives in Lynchburg, Virginia.
Q: How did you first hear about BraveLove?
A: I heard about BraveLove shortly after it launched! At the time, I was working as an adoption caseworker and then was double blessed to connect with Laura Bruder at a conference. I’ve been a fan ever since!
Q: How long have you been working with BraveLove?
A: I joined the team in June 2024.
Q: What’s your role with the organization?
A: My official title is Executive Director, but I'm still learning what that all entails! I get to be involved and oversee all parts of the organization - from education and partnerships to birth mom support and even fundraising.
Q: What's one of your favorite parts of your job?
A: Connecting with other birth mothers on a personal level is incredibly meaningful to me. I love that BraveLove provides a platform for birth mothers to share their stories, knowing it will impact others in immeasurable ways!
Q: Why do you care about this mission?
A: The short answer is simple: "Because I am a birth mother." The long answer: I love that the mission is three-fold—equipping professionals, educating the public, and providing a supportive community. By addressing all three areas, BraveLove makes a greater impact on how professionals talk about adoption, breaks down the public's negative stigmas of adoption, and provides women with a foundation of support and honor throughout their adoption journey.
Q: What do you do for fun?
A: I play a mean game of pickleball. Yes, you read that correctly! I also have a Golden Retriever who I hang with 24/7. He is my buddy!
Q: What does life look like for you these days?
A: My husband and I are officially empty nesters, and we're loving every minute of it!
Q: I know you can’t pick a favorite story or film, but which one really stands out to you?
A: BraveLove has so many great stories, but for me, I can't watch Whitney's story without shedding a tear. I had the opportunity to interact with her at various adoption events and have been blown away by her openness, perseverance, and resilience. And yes, she did graduate nursing school!
Q: What's in your Amazon cart right now?
A: So, so much! My family shares the same account so items get added (and deleted) daily!
Q: What are you reading right now?
A: Emails. LOL.
Q: Favorite TV show at the moment?
A: 1883. I have officially joined the Yellowstone craze and need to see what it is all about. If you ask me the same question next week, I will have a different answer!
Q: Go-to coffee or tea order?
A: Neither! I prefer a cold Pepsi! I know, it is so bad for me...
