About Ashley

Ashley Bohinc has dedicated the last 20 years to serving teenagers in educational, athletic, and ministry settings. With her vast experience, she most recently led the middle school strategy at Orange, demonstrating her ability to create effective and impactful curriculum and resources. Known for her energy, passion, and authenticity, Ashley is a sought-after creator, communicator, coach, and consultant, and has left an indelible mark on the field, solidifying her reputation as a trusted resource in the industry.

With a heart for students, Ashley earned her B.A. in Education from Kent State University in 2006 before going on to receive her M.Ed. in Education from McDaniel College in 2009. She began her career in the public school system, working as a middle school health teacher and high school soccer coach. In her six years working in the public school system, Ashley had thousands of conversations with teenagers, opening her eyes to their desperate need for a mentor to guide them as they navigate who they are and who they want to be.  

In response to that need, Ashley transitioned into full-time work in middle school ministry at her local church, working specifically to lead students through the rough waters of middle school by pointing them toward the truth of who they are in Jesus. Five years later, she moved to the Atlanta area where she began work for North Point Ministries Multi-Campus Middle School Team before accepting her position to lead the Middle School Curriculum Team at Orange. Since then, she has written two influential books, Communicating to Middle Schoolers and The Art of Group Talk for Teenage Girls, showcasing her expertise in communication and connection with young people. Furthermore, Ashley co-hosted the The Think Orange Podcast, and currently hosts the Rethinking Youth Ministry Podcast, where she cultivates conversations around important topics in the ministry space.

Additionally, Ashley serves as the Executive Director of Carry 117, a ministry based in Ethiopia that focuses on orphan prevention and family preservation through empowering women. Carry 117 hires at-risk women in one of the poorest and most marginalized communities in Ethiopia and teaches them to read and write, measure, cut, and sew beautiful products. With a heart for service, Ashley is thrilled to be a part of ministry making a difference in the lives of women and families in a country she loves.

When she’s not trying to change lives or change the world, you’ll find Ashley working in her garden, traveling, or sorting through the meaning behind the latest Taylor Swift lyrics.

CARRY 117 existS to empower women.

We believe that economic empowerment provides the foundation necessary for sustainable development. The Carry 117 model revolves around this belief, going beyond charity to support income alternatives. As the women involved in this project are empowered, their families will be strengthened and preserved. The community and the country as a whole will benefit.

We hire at-risk women in Korah, Ethopia, train them to measure, cut, sew, and provide them with a job. Each month they earn a paycheck, which in turn allows them to provide for themselves and their families.

We sell these products in Ethiopia at bazaars, businesses, or at our two Carry 117 stores. In the United States of America and Canada, we sell products in bulk, at small shops, schools, churches, trunk shows, personal parties, festivals and businesses. Our products are also sold online at our Carry 117 store.

We see dignity being restored, confidence growing, stability within families, children being fed and educated, and the hope of a bright future.