Washington Area Women's Foundation

Ask Her Series: Championing Change in Early Care and Education

In our latest #AskHer webinar, Early Care and Education (ECE) leaders from across the region—Allison Gilbreath, Senior Director of Policy and Programs at Voices for Virginia’s Children; Kimberly Perry, Executive Director of DC Action; and Erica Williams, Executive Director of DC Fiscal Policy Institute—gathered to discuss the state of the nonprofit sector and the challenges and opportunities it faces today.

The conversation highlighted the transformative impact of ECE organizations while critically examining how traditional structures and cultural norms in the nonprofit space can hinder growth and inclusivity. Panelists shared strategies for dismantling these barriers to foster more equitable and sustainable practices. They also addressed systemic issues limiting the sector’s potential, exploring innovative pathways to build resilience and longevity.

With inspiring examples from their own work, Allison, Kimberly, and Erica highlighted how ECE organizations continue to adapt and provide critical support to our communities.

The session was moderated by Abriana Kimbrough, ECE Program Officer at The Women’s Foundation.


Invest in the future of our communities. Your gift today, no matter the size, fuels initiatives that break down barriers and create opportunities that advance gender and racial equity within early care and education systems.