The story is not theory; it is a testimony. Living through the very hardships we now help families overcome. To understand what it feels like to be overwhelmed, unseen, and one crisis away from losing everything. Yet knowing when the power of compassion shows up on time—one person, one open door, one act of kindness can change the direction of a life. That is why we exist: to stand in the gap, to restore hope with action, and to help others rise—stronger, supported, and ready to Dream Again. With & On Purpose.
Affectionately known as Ms. Marie, Ida Marie Briggs is a creator, entrepreneur, philanthropist, author, playwright, international speaker, and trauma-informed navigational coach & more. Her leadership is grounded in service and shaped by the very lived experiences she advocates for. Originally from New Jersey, she has called California home for most of her life. Her journey has included seasons of trial, trauma, and transition—experiences she has learned to navigate through with faith, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to “use what she has” to move forward with purpose.
In September 2000, she launched Advocates Committed Together in Service (ACTS), establishing a community-based point of contact for collaborative partnerships that support children, youth, and families, with family
reunification as the goal whenever possible. Shortly thereafter, a fire displaced her family and led to homelessness—an experience that provided firsthand understanding of how quickly stability can be lost and how critical timely support can be. That defining season strengthened her resolve to advocate for families in transition and to help restore hope with dignity.
Based in Los Angeles County, The Mustard Seed Entreprise serves locally while sustaining a broader reach through partnerships and outreach across the United States and internationally, including support extended to Buseko Children’s Home in Zambia, Africa. The Founder’s testimony continues to inform initiatives that provide practical resources and renewed hope—from Cover With Love and Season of Giving to Excess Baggage Productions and the I’m Possible coaching model—reflecting a simple conviction: when people are seen, supported, and empowered, they too can heal, grow stronger, “Use What They Got”, so they can Dream Again. This time on & in purpose!
To curate welcoming, “safe” places and programs where children, youth and families are respected, valued, supported, and empowered to Dream Again—to promote healing, growing stronger together, and turning their strengths and lived experience into pathways to a thriving future.
We support and advocate for the mental and emotional wellbeing of children, youth, and families in underserved communities impacted by sexual or physical abuse, domestic violence, foster care or judicial systems, homelessness, poverty, and other related traumas.
