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When life threw its heaviest punches, Courtney Finklea Green didn’t back down—she transformed. A single mother, advocate, educator, nonprofit founder, and political force, Courtney’s story is one of fierce resilience, unstoppable passion, and a relentless drive to change the world. The  desire to change the world is not just for herself, but for every child and parent navigating a world that often misunderstands neurodiversity.

Courtney’s journey began with a miracle: her son DJ. Born after doctors said she’d never have children, DJ came into the world through a traumatic delivery that nearly cost Courtney her life. But the real challenge came after navigating single motherhood and understanding a child who learned and experienced the world differently.

“I knew nothing about the autism spectrum, ADHD, sensory processing, or speech delays,” Courtney recalls. “But I had to learn, because DJ needed me to be his advocate.” She dove into education and legal research, learning how to fight for DJ’s rights not with emotion alone, but with knowledge and precision. “You start using legal terms, and people jump real fast,” she says with a knowing smile.

That same drive birthed Mustard Seed Mom, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting single parents of children with exceptionalities—a term Courtney intentionally chooses over “disability.” “Exceptionality feels empowering,” she explains. “It gives value to the child’s uniqueness rather than reducing them to a limitation.”

Mustard Seed Mom doesn’t hand out luxuries—it provides the basics often taken for granted: food, clothing, and household essentials. Courtney partners with non-public schools to identify single parents in need, offering twice-a-year support through gift cards. “It’s not about being Oprah and giving away cars. It’s about dignity. It’s about survival.”

Courtney’s advocacy led her to an unexpected realm—politics. “I didn’t grow up in a political family,” she laughs. But passion found its path. Starting with advocating for education policy, she caught the eye of Maryland leaders like Delegate Darryl Barnes and later worked on campaigns for Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Senator Angela Alsobrooks.

Eventually, Courtney found herself at the helm of Maryland 529, appointed by Maryland State Treasurer Dereck Davis, where she now serves as Deputy Treasurer, overseeing college savings plans and the ABLE program—an initiative that empowers individuals with exceptionalities to live financially secure lives.

But her accomplishments don’t end with titles. Courtney ran for and won a seat as a DNC delegate and became President of the South County Democratic Club. Her recent initiative, the Marinda Jackson Scholarship Fund, awarded three young African American men with college scholarships. “Statistically, only 26% of HBCU students are male. We need to uplift our young men and invest in their futures.”

With everything she’s built, one might ask how she balances it all. Her answer is honest and raw: “I don’t know. I just do it because it means something to me.” Her quiet moments—spent in meditation and reflection—keep her grounded. “People are so busy they don’t hear their own thoughts. You have to slow down to connect with yourself.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs or parents facing their own challenges, Courtney’s advice is powerful: “When opportunity knocks, say yes—even if you’re scared. You can be scared. Just don’t stop.” She laughs as she adds, “Look good, hold your head high, and keep moving forward—even if you’re freaking out inside.”

Looking ahead, Courtney Finklea Green sees no limits. “Where do I see myself in five years? Everywhere.”

And truthfully, the world needs her everywhere. Her voice, her passion, her unapologetic authenticity—Courtney Finklea Green isn’t just making a difference. She’s building a legacy.

 

Follow Courtney’s journey:

● Website: www.themustardseedmom.com

● IG: @ibeymyself | @mustardseedmom

● Facebook: Courtney Finklea Green

● Club: www.southcountydemsclub.com

Let Courtney’s story remind you: Even the smallest mustard seed of faith can move mountains.