Gilliard and Company is a non profit in Pooler, GA

About Us

Whitney Gilliard’s unwavering commitment shines through Gilliard & Co., a beacon of support for young adults on the precipice of independence. Gilliard & Co. is home to the transformative Independent Living Program (ILP), a haven that offers transitional housing for individuals aged 18 who are transitioning out of foster care. Nestled in Savannah, the ILP nurtures up to 16 young adults, guiding them through self-improvement, underscored by commitments to employment and education. 

Whitney Gilliard

Spreading Joy and Positivity

Whitney’s narrative of resilience, having navigated the tumultuous waters of aging out of foster care herself at 21, serves as the bedrock for ILP. Her experiences have shaped a vision where compassion prevails over neglect, ensuring that no young adult feels abandoned at this critical juncture.

Working intimately within the system, Whitney has gleaned insights into its complexities, striving tirelessly to streamline the path for those it serves. Her leadership extends beyond executive duties; she is a hands-on case manager at Gilliard & Co., championing a collaborative ethos. Whitney values the diverse tapestry of her team and board, celebrating the strength and representation they bring to the organization, and by extension, to the young adults they serve. 

If this is our version of working over the weekend, we are OK with it 🤣. #foodandwinefestival #connectsavannahConnect Savannah Events ... See MoreSee Less
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We are proud to celebrate our Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Ms. Whitney Lam Gilliard, for being honored with the Trailblazers Award at the Women Who Lead Power Conference in Savannah!This recognition celebrates women who not only lead with vision, but who ignite change through courage, compassion, and impact. Ms. Whitney’s leadership is rooted in lived experience — once a youth in foster care herself, she now stands as a powerful advocate, ensuring that every young person aging out of the system has access to housing, education, and support through Gilliard & Company.Her journey reminds us that true leadership isn’t defined by titles — it’s defined by service, empathy, and the willingness to stand up for those without a voice. Through her work, Ms. Whitney continues to show that women with lived experience don’t just inspire change — they build the systems that make it possible.Congratulations, Ms. Whitney, and thank you for leading the way for women, for youth, and for every underdog who’s still fighting to be seen. 💙#WomenWhoLead #TrailblazerAward #FosterCareStrong #GilliardAndCompany #LeadershipWithPurpose #RepresentationMatters #WomenInLeadership #SavannahStrong ... See MoreSee Less
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The entire Eastern Wharf came alive — absolutely swarmed with foodies, families, and friends who brought so much love and energy to this event. You could feel the joy in every corner, from the laughter to the music to the endless plates of flavor!We are beyond grateful for the incredible turnout — it had to be well over 500 people! Every single ticket, every conversation, every visit to our booth was a contribution to our mission at Gilliard & Company to meet the needs of youth in foster care. 💙To everyone who came out, supported, and celebrated with us — thank you.Your kindness and community spirit remind us that food connects hearts, and giving changes lives.Here’s to a city that always shows up, and to every person who believes that change starts with compassion. 🕊️#SavannahFoodAndWineFestival #GilliardAndCompany #CommunityStrong #FosterCareAwareness #FoodiesForGood #EasternWharfSavannah #SupportLocalConnect Savannah Events ... See MoreSee Less
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About US

Our Story

Whitney’s journey from a youth in foster care to the CEO of a nonprofit epitomizes an extraordinary transformation, challenging societal expectations and redefining what success means. Her sage advice reflects a life of learned wisdom, characterized by approaching life with balance, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence. 

Gilliard & Co.

Beyond ILP, Gilliard & Co. spearheads initiatives like the Permanency Mentor Program, which offers lifelong mentorship in life skills; the HavINN Trauma Intervention Room, which provides a comforting space for children awaiting placement; and the With Love Project, which captures the spirit of community during the holiday season for children under the care of DFACS. Each program under Gilliard & Co.’s umbrella is a testament to Whitney’s vision of a supportive community for every child and young adult stepping into the future.