About Us

Conveniently situated in the heart of Old Towne Laurel, our service area spans the state of Maryland, including its 23 counties and Baltimore City, with a focus on Anne Arundel, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George's Counties. Located just 21 miles from both Baltimore and Washington, DC, Laurel serves as a central hub for our compassionate assistance and resources. From this strategic location, we offer support to families, individuals, and practitioners affected by miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. Understanding the diverse needs of our community, we ensure our services are easily accessible to all seeking solace and understanding during their time of grief. Together, we stand united in our commitment to nurturing healing, resilience, and hope within our local community and beyond.

Our Mission

Stillborn And Infant Loss Support is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of families who experience miscarriage, stillbirth, and other pregnancy losses. Our mission is accomplished through community building, education, mentorship, and support groups.

Our Vision

No family grieves alone.

Our Values

Advocacy: We stand as unwavering champions for families and individuals navigating the complexities of loss. With heartfelt dedication, we advocate for their needs, ensuring their voices are heard and their experiences honored with passion and purpose.
Collaboration: We understand that healing and progress are achieved through unity. By fostering positive relationships and partnerships with families, organizations, and each other, we can amplify our impact and achieve greater success in supporting those in need.
Community: We recognize the profound healing and transformative power of community. Through shared experiences and support, we create a nurturing environment where families can find comfort, understanding, and hope as they navigate their grief journey together.
Compassion: We deeply understand the unique journeys of those affected by miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. Our commitment to compassion guides every interaction, offering kindness and empathy to ease the burden of grief.
Excellence: We hold ourselves to the highest standards, recognizing that excellence is paramount in providing support to grieving families. With dedication and care, we strive to deliver the very best resources, services, and guidance.
Integrity: Trust is the cornerstone of our organization. We believe in the power of our words and actions to create a safe and inclusive environment where families can find solace and support. Integrity guides us in every decision and interaction.

Our Logo

Crafted in the form of a sailboat, our emblem symbolizes our commitment to guiding families through the tumultuous waters of grief on their journey towards healing. At the forefront of our emblem, the silhouette of Ivyanna Salene, our Founder's Angel Baby, graces the headsail, serving as both the inspiration and driving force behind Stillborn And Infant Loss Support. Just as a sail catches the wind and propels a boat forward, we strive to uplift and empower those navigating the profound pain of stillbirth and infant loss. Through our emblem, we express solidarity, compassion, and hope as we navigate this journey together.

Our Story

Stillborn And Infant Loss Support (SAILS) traces its roots back to a deeply personal journey of loss and resilience. Founded on November 13, 2017, our mission emerged from the profound grief experienced by our Founder, Sadija, following the stillbirth of her daughter "Ivyanna Salene" on the same date in 2003. Ivyanna's name, meaning "heartbeat," symbolizes the enduring legacy of love and hope that continues to inspire our work.

Driven by Sadija's unwavering dedication to honoring Ivyanna's memory and supporting others facing similar tragedies, SAILS officially received its 501(c)(3) status in May of 2019. Initially established in the humble setting of the Founder's basement, our organization steadily grew in both reach and impact.

On November 13, 2020, a significant milestone marked our journey as SAILS transitioned to its official office space, symbolizing not only physical expansion but also a deepening commitment to serving our community with compassion and excellence.

Throughout our history, SAILS has remained steadfast in its mission to provide solace, resources, and understanding to those navigating the profound pain of stillbirth and infant loss. Ivyanna's heartbeat lives on through our organization, guiding us as we continue to offer support, healing, and hope to bereaved families and individuals across the state of Maryland.