Makayla Washington ready to serve single parents in Southeast Arkansas

Statewide nonprofit Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF) is excited to welcome Makayla Washington to the team.

Makayla started Jan. 8 as the Program Manager for the ASPSF Southeast Region, which includes Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, and Lincoln counties.

As Program Manager, Makayla helps single parents complete their degrees by walking them through ASPSF’s scholarship application process, connecting them to additional resources, and providing encouragement. She’ll also manage local volunteers, fundraise for scholarships, and strengthen community partnerships. 

“I am most excited to help those who are truly in need,” she said. “Because I am a single parent myself, I understand what it’s like to be a real single parent and need help when you are trying to better your life.”

For the past two years, Makayla was a case manager covering Desha County for Southeast Arkansas Community Action Corporation. She spent her early career in health care and is highly involved in her local community.

She serves on the advisory board of the Boys & Girls Club of McGehee and as a student ambassador for the University of Arkansas at Monticello-College of Technology. She’s also involved in the Desha County political party and her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta, where she has served as vice president and president.

“I am beyond excited to have Makayla join the program team,” ASPSF Program Director LaCresha Newton said. “With a passion for supporting single parent students like herself, Makayla brings dedication and expertise that will undoubtedly make a positive impact to Southeast Arkansas.”

Makayla lives in McGehee with her son, Suquorey (Ace). An Arkansas native, she grew up in Parkdale and spent the past six years in Lake Village. She’s thrilled to be back in Desha County to be closer to her family, work, and her son’s school.