Community Highlights: Meet Erika Gorman of Three Strands Family Center

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Gorman

Hi Erika, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2021, I was pregnant with my first child and living in a new town where I didn’t know many other parents. I felt unprepared and unsure of what to expect as we stepped into this new chapter as a family. Then I discovered a family center nearby, and it changed everything. The resources, support, and community I found there gave me a sense of confidence and clarity I didn’t know I needed. It wasn’t just about preparing for birth; it was about feeling equipped to navigate the journey of motherhood with a sense of empowerment.

Two years later, after we had moved across the country to Columbia, Tennessee, I became pregnant again. This time, I was surrounded by other women who were also navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood. But as I looked for the kind of support I had experienced during my first pregnancy, I quickly realized something important was missing—a dedicated space where moms and dads could access resources, support, and encouragement beyond what we could offer each other. Most parenting resources and providers were located far away in Franklin or Nashville, leaving families in the Columbia area with limited options unless they were willing to make long commutes. It became clear that Columbia needed a local space where parents could access the resources and encouragement they deserved, close to home. That’s how Three Strands Family Center was born.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
This past summer, I launched our nonprofit with high hopes, fueled by the overwhelming feedback I’d received from parents over the last two years. I thought our growth would be immediate, but the experience has been a humbling reminder of the challenges involved in building something new and establishing a presence. While I’ve been part of churches, nonprofits, startups, and growing businesses since I was fourteen, this is my first time spearheading such a large initiative on my own. As a one-person team, I juggle multiple roles daily, and with the organization currently funded entirely from my personal “fun money” savings, I’ve had to be extremely thoughtful about how I allocate both my time and resources.

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m hoping to focus more on securing grants and funding to ensure we have a sustainable future. One of my big dreams is to have our own physical space—a home base for the families we serve. Right now, we’re meeting at other businesses during their off-hours to save money, but this can sometimes be confusing for the families we support. Despite the challenges, I’m optimistic about what’s to come and excited to continue building a resource that families in our community can count on.

As you know, we’re big fans of Three Strands Family Center. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Our mission is to provide families in the Columbia area with the support they need at every stage of the parenting journey—without the added stress of traveling long distances. Parenting is a journey full of challenges, joys, and unknowns. Whether it’s your first child or your fourth, each experience is unique.Whether you’re planning for a family, expecting a baby, navigating postpartum recovery, or raising toddlers and young children, we’re here to meet you where you are, guiding you through the ups and downs. Through classes, resources, and a welcoming community, we aim to help you prepare emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually for parenthood.

Our name reflects the strength found in community, inspired by Ecclesiastes 4:12: “A cord of three strands is not easily broken.” We’re committed to being that third strand for parents, providing support and strengthening families. Parenthood isn’t a journey you should face alone. With Three Strands Family Center, you don’t have to. Together, we’ll navigate this incredible season of life right here, close to home.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Like so many others, my family relocated to Tennessee from California in search of a place that aligns with our values. One of the things I’ve come to love most about living here is the Southern hospitality—it’s truly unmatched. And as a musical family (my husband is a musician, and I’m a singer), settling in an area that’s so deeply rooted in music was the icing on the cake. It’s incredible that, no matter where you go, our kids are constantly exposed to phenomenal artists. That’s something truly special about this place.

What breaks my heart, though, is how quickly the city is developing. It’s hard to see the beautiful open spaces and farmlands being converted into subdivisions, warehouses, or strip malls. It feels like pieces of the area’s charm are being lost, bit by bit. And with all the development comes more traffic, which only adds to my concerns about how this rapid growth will change the community.

I’m really hoping the area can hold on to its small-town feel. There’s something so precious about the close-knit, welcoming vibe that makes this place home, and I’d love to see that preserved for future generations.

Pricing:

• $50 – 3 Class Pack
• $85 – 5 Class Pack
• $160 – 10 Class Pack
• $120 – Family Monthly Membership (Unlimited Passes)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.threestrandsfamily.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threestrandsfamily/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/threestrandsfamily
• Other: https://youtu.be/aXQdmhDmeos?feature=shared