For over 30 years, Sokhna Ndoye built a career in information technology, solving complex problems and guiding people through change. But nothing could prepare her for the moment her daughter suffered a traumatic brain injury. Overnight, Sokhna’s world shifted from leading teams and technology to navigating hospitals, rehabilitation, and the unknowns of recovery.
As a mother, she drew on every ounce of determination, resourcefulness, and faith she had. Her professional success provided the financial stability to access the care her daughter needed—but Sokhna quickly realized what so many families face: without resources, even the strongest love and resolve can’t overcome the steep barriers to recovery.
That realization became her calling. GuidedFunds Trust was born out of Sokhna’s lived experience as both a mother and a problem-solver. She understood firsthand that recovery is not just about medical treatment—it’s about whether families can afford rehabilitation, home modifications, or even basic support along the way.
Now, Sokhna is using the same strategic mindset that made her a leader in technology to build a movement of compassion, access, and equity. With empathy at the core, she leads GuidedFunds Trust to ensure that no family has to choose between hope and hardship.
Her vision is clear: a world where every family—regardless of income or circumstance—can access the care and support needed to rebuild after brain injury.
“There is a solution to every problem. Together, we can turn hardship into hope and possibility.” – Sokhna Ndoye
Fatimah Freeman is a nonprofit and communications leader with extensive experience in philanthropy, development, and executive management. As Managing Director of a family office, she oversees governance, operations, and philanthropic initiatives, including a donor-advised fund. Her career includes securing major corporate partnerships and leading community programs that expand opportunity. She brings expertise in fundraising strategy, organizational leadership, and cross-sector collaboration to advance the mission of Guided Funds Trust.
Kristen Barley is the Executive Director of the Energy Education Foundation in Houston, TX, where she drives strategic direction for programs that champion energy literacy and workforce development. With over two decades of executive leadership and program development experience, her background spans diverse sectors, including nearly a decade at Spindletop Impact Partners, where she supported the energy industry.
Notably, she also served for several years as a Development Director and Executive Director for Susan G. Komen across the Southeast region. A proven trailblazer, Kristen is dedicated to strategic growth and fostering community engagement. She is passionate about ensuring everyone has equitable access to the care and education they need.
GuidedFunds Trust supports individuals with brain injuries or neurological differences and their families by closing gaps in care that too often go unmet. We collaborate with organizations and leverage strategic funding to provide compassionate, comprehensive support that promotes recovery and dignity.
We embrace challenges with resilience and determination, staying committed to our mission even in the face of adversity.
We draw strength from diversity and collaboration. By empowering individuals and working together, we create resilient systems that support long-term impact.
We believe in the power of collective action. GuidedFunds fosters inclusive partnerships and uplifts voices from all walks of life.
Compassion guides everything we do. We lead with empathy, kindness, and respect for human dignity, fostering a culture of care where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued. Our love is active—shown through service, inclusion, and a commitment to well-being in every interaction.
Brain injuries and neurological differences don’t just affect patients—they impact entire families. Yet too many face recovery without adequate resources. The consequences are severe:
GuidedFunds Trust exists to close these gaps, ensuring dignity, stability, and hope during one of life’s most difficult journeys.
It happened without warning — my daughter was in a car accident that changed everything.
We were completely unprepared — financially, emotionally, mentally. I watched her fight for her life, and was told she might never have a meaningful quality of life if we chose to keep her on life support.
The road ahead was daunting. We were told she would need extensive care and financial resources to even have a chance.
For months, we tried to manage without help. The guilt of fundraising weighed heavily, but we didn’t realize the true impact of the accident or the level of care she would require.
Thanks to the generosity of others, we received enough support to cover crucial therapy at home for two months — just until the paperwork was processed for her official care to begin.
We were able to purchase medical equipment, hire two full-time caregivers during the day and one at night, and pay for acupuncture that brought her relief. We even hired private physical and occupational therapists.
Miraculously, she began to recover faster than doctors had predicted. My job allowed me to work from home, and having her mother close by was a source of strength and comfort.
It was a miracle — a second chance at life. But it was also the result of being blessed with the financial means to support her recovery.
I know many families aren’t as fortunate. I know there are people and organizations out there who want to help. GuidedFunds Trust was born from this experience — to pay it forward and help others facing similar challenges find hope and healing.
“In the darkest moments, it is the light of love, resilience, and the kindness of others that guides us back to hope. GuidedFunds Trust exists to be that light for those who need it most.”
