Mariama Ford | West Peoria, Illinois

Driven by a deep love for her city, Mariama Ford is the Director of Human Resources and Finances with Central Illinois Friends. Her compassion for all living things prompted a childhood dream of being a veterinarian before she found her present calling.

For the last six years, Mariama has also advocated for Peoria’s arts, political, small business, and nonprofit sectors. After witnessing firsthand the impact of community-driven efforts, Ford seized the opportunity to head the Young Professionals program at the Tri-County Urban League and to serve as Admissions and Marketing Director at Sharon Healthcare Woods. “Mariama Ford has made a lasting impact on our community through her tireless dedication to education, advocacy, and empowerment,” writes nominator Chanel Hargrave-Murry. “As a leader, she has consistently worked to bridge gaps in access to quality resources, ensuring that underrepresented groups have the tools they need to succeed.”

After losing her brother to a tragic car accident, Ford found healing through serving the community and holds the treatment of mental health issues near and dear to her heart. She believes “…a person's mental well-being affects every area of their lives and can determine the kind of life they are able to lead…” Ford credits God, her community and all those she served for getting her through the darkest times of her life.

With over ten years’ experience in mental health, Ford’s focus is on promoting mental health awareness, professional development, and civic engagement. At Peoria Urban League Young Professionals, she championed collaboration with numerous organizations such as the NAACP, NAMI Tri-County, the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Salvation Army, recognizing the power of collaboration and the impact of giving back to the city she calls home. Proud graduate of Central High School and devoted mother of her teenage daughter, Layla, Ford serves as a board member at Neighborhood House, where she works to ensure that the most underserved members of the community receive the support they need to thrive.