TRAINING

Community-Based Doula Training

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Training

Meet The Trainers

Community-Based Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Training Program

Empowering Mothers. Building Community. Promoting Health Equity.

Black Mothers’ Breastfeeding Association (BMBFA) is proud to offer the Community-Based Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (BFPC) Training Program, designed to train and support Black mothers and birthing persons who are passionate about breastfeeding, maternal health, and community advocacy. Through our HealthConnect One replication model, participants receive comprehensive, culturally relevant training to educate and empower families on breastfeeding and infant nutrition. Since our first cohort in 2013, the program has developed skilled peer counselors who serve as trusted community liaisons, helping families navigate breastfeeding with confidence, from birth through weaning.

What is a Community-Based Breastfeeding Peer Counselor?

Community-Based Breastfeeding Peer Counselors are trusted members of the community who:

  • Educate, advise, and support moms on common breastfeeding concerns.

  • Assist mothers in incorporating breastfeeding into their everyday lives; whether at school, work, play, or worship.

  • Serve as community liaisons, offering vital resources that help bridge social barriers and close gaps in breastfeeding support.

About the Program

BMBFA’s training program follows the HealthConnect One replication model, preparing a team of community-based Breastfeeding Peer Counselors to support mothers through home visits—from birth to weaning. The program launched its first cohort in 2013 and continues to offer annual training.

    • Cost: Free (no tuition)

    • Duration: 12 weeks; ½ day per week

    • BMBFA BFPC training hosts 1 cohort of trainees annually, starting in the Winter

  • Community-Based Breastfeeding Peer Counselors are the heart of our mission. They:

    • Support mothers through common breastfeeding challenges

    • Promote improved birth outcomes and increased breastfeeding rates

    • Provide culturally competent, family-centered care

  • Applicants should:

    • Have breastfed at least one baby within the last 2–3 years

    • Describe their breastfeeding experience as positive

    • Reside in Detroit, Highland Park, or Hamtramck (priority given to residents)

    • Have reliable transportation and access to a cell phone

    • Be enthusiastic about helping other mothers succeed

    • Provide two community or professional references

  • Trainees must:

    • Complete field observations (prenatal, postpartum, and class settings)

    • Conduct 12 home visits with prenatal and postpartum contacts

    • Attend at least 83% of classes (no more than two absences)

    • Participate in BMBFA’s Black Mothers Breastfeeding Club or B.L.I.S.S. sessions

    • Attend a Perinatal Mental Health Workshop hosted by Harambee CareItem description

Questions?

Email:info@bmbfa.org 
Phone:1 (800) 313-6141