About Monroe Harding | Serving Young People Since 1893

We empower children, youth, and young adults impacted by foster care.

Serving Middle Tennessee, Monroe Harding supports children, youth, and young adults impacted by foster care from birth through age 26. Through a continuum of care, we provide stability, skills, and support young people need to navigate critical transitions and build successful, independent lives.

Founded in 1893 as an orphanage for displaced youth, MonroeHarding has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of young people while remaining steadfast in our commitment to providing homes, healing, and opportunities that help them reach their full potential.

A foster family smiling and celebrating together indoors, with two children held by adults and holiday wreaths on the beige walls behind them.

Our Programs

Foster Care

We recruit, train, and support foster families across Middle Tennessee, creating safe and nurturing homes where children can thrive.

Resource Center

At the Resource Center, young people gain education and career readiness, financial literacy, and essential life skills for independence.

Supportive Housing

We provide stable housing for young adults transitioning out of foster care, creating a foundation for independence and confidence.

Our History

1893

Black and white photo of a woman sitting at a desk with seven boys, some standing and some sitting on the floor, reading books.

Monroe Harding Memorial Orphanage was founded in 1893 by Fannie Harding, in honor of her late husband Dr. James Monroe Harding. Fannie donated her family home and 5 acres of land on 18th avenue north. The first child to come through the doors was an 8-year old named John Hatfield.

1934

Black and white photo of an elderly woman sitting in a chair surrounded by seven young boys outdoors in a schoolyard or playground.

During the great depression, many parents could not afford to keep their children. The orphanage, now called Monroe Harding Children’s Home, needed more space. 30 acres of land was purchased on the North side of Glendale Lane in 1934.

1950

Black and white photo of a two-story brick house with columns in front, partially obscured by leafless trees on a grassy lawn.

The Glendale property continued to expand, building additions such as a gymnasium, and living cottages.

1990

Black and white photo of twelve boys standing in a row outside a large building, most wearing overalls or shorts, some shirtless.

New programs were added – including a mother and child program for teen mothers, and a transitional living program for 16-21 year olds.

2005

Historic brick building with white columns and a silver roof surrounded by trees and lawn.

Monroe Harding opened its Resource Connections center on Foster Avenue in Nashville. Independent living moved off campus to a West-Nashville location, while the Glendale campus served as a home for foster care and juvenile justice system youth.

2009

Judge standing behind a young boy at a courtroom bench with the boy's smiling parents and U.S. and state flags in the background.

Foster Care organization RSI became part of Monroe Harding, allowing children to be served in the homes of caring foster families.

2011

Six people sitting in a circle in a room, engaged in discussion and note-taking, with a colorful mural and sticky notes on the walls.

Monroe Harding began implementing trauma and resiliency informed care.

2019

Historical roadside marker detailing Monroe Harding Memorial Orphanage established in 1893, located by a street with trees and grass.

Monroe Harding sold the Glendale Lane campus and moved to our new home on Vantage Way, with our resource center being located downtown, and our independent living homes in West and North Nashville.

Who We Are