About us
Who Is Alberta?
Alberta Monk, the founder’s grandmother and an amazing woman who lived her life with Schizophrenia, Alberta had her own Adverse Childhood Experiences that shaped her. Witnessing the murder of her father, losing a child, and experiencing segregation at such a young age, these traumatic experiences followed Alberta to adulthood. With the diagnosis of Schizophrenia and experiencing mental health stigma first-hand from family, friends, and community members, Alberta was frequently misunderstood by those around her. Despite these experiences, she dedicated her life to being an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. Participating in her church choir, working in the community, and making sure to show positivity to everyone she interacted with, Alberta was a woman full of love. Passing away at the age of 65, Alberta continues to make a lasting impact on her family.
Who we are
We are a team of change-makers who values mental health wants to make a difference in our community. We wish to foster growth by providing the youth with tools and resources to address mental health concerns
The Alberta Monk Foundation is a mental health education service provider and youth development and advocacy organization based in Jacksonville, NC. Established in May 2025, the organization serves students ages 6 to 18 in the Duplin, Onslow, and Pender County School systems, parents, and teachers. Individuals in these populations face a significant deficit in health literacy, counseling, and supportive services. The lack of early intervention makes them significantly more likely to be diagnosed or affected by mental health concerns in adulthood.
Our organization holds 501(c)(3) status under a fiscal sponsorship, providing us the opportunity to provide programs and resources as soon as possible. The Alberta Monk Foundation will create leaders, forge relationships, and reduce barriers for youth living in Onslow County.
Our approach
Our Mission
Our mission is to promote the growth of young people with knowledge, resources, and community support to foster mental well-being, reduce stigma, and encourage early intervention.
Whether it is a encouraging conversation, support groups, education, professional training, or simply the assurance that they are not alone, we will make sure that everyone gets support that meets them where they’re at as quickly as possible.
Our Vision
Our vision is a community where everyone has access to quality mental health resources, care, and increased mental health literacy.
This vision is part of The Alberta Monk Foundation’s work to address gaps in traditional healthcare and family support services networks.
Our Board
President
E'Spreance Bligen
Treasurer
Delphine Gardner
Director
Terry Littlejohn
Vice President
Ingrid Littlejohn
Secretary
Patricia Bligen
Our Team
Founder/Chief Executive Officer
E'Spreance Bligen
Chief Operations Officer
Briana Brown
English