Dr. Carla Ludwig

Dr. Carla Ludwig is the Founder and Executive Director of Hope for Single Moms, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering single mothers through education, workforce development, and holistic family support. A trailblazer throughout her life, Dr. Ludwig was one of only 30 women in a class of 150 at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, and she successfully raised six children in eight years while holding leadership roles in nonprofit organizations. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to helping women achieve their full potential and building stronger, more resilient families.

Her passion for supporting single mothers was sparked in 2011 when her own daughter became a college student and new mother. Witnessing firsthand the systemic barriers—such as financial instability, limited childcare, housing challenges, and lack of support—Dr. Ludwig recognized that nearly half of single-mom families live in poverty, not for lack of potential, but because of structural obstacles to career education. This experience inspired her to establish Hope for Single Moms, where she leads programs that remove academic, financial, emotional, and childcare barriers, helping women achieve economic independence while strengthening their families.

In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Dr. Ludwig is an author, speaker, and curriculum developer, focusing on career readiness, mentorship, and generational impact. Under her guidance, Hope for Single Moms has launched innovative initiatives such as Cleaning for Hope, a workforce training program providing paid training, certifications, and mentoring for mothers in low-income households. Through her work, Dr. Ludwig has built supportive communities that foster stability, dignity, and opportunity—ensuring that when a mother succeeds, her children thrive.

• Exchanged life counseling

• University of Michigan - D.D.S.

• Recipient at the Gather and Grant in January 2025
• 16 over 60 award
• Shark Tank winner

• Right to Life of Michigan Local PAC