Creating a better future for children and families

I joined NC Child as the new Executive Director this September. I am honored to be part of this team because we share a vision where North Carolina is the best place to be a child and to raise a family. And I know you share that vision, too.

Recently, I met the members of our Parent Advisory Council and heard first-hand about the issues that they face every day. These parents and caregivers raise children who rely on Medicaid for their health care. Hearing their stories and seeing how fiercely they advocate for their own children was a powerful reminder of why we are doing this work for all children in North Carolina. When we prioritize the needs of children who face the highest barriers, and really listen to the expertise of parents who are closest to their children’s challenges, we can create stronger public policies that benefit every child in North Carolina.

You power our Parent Advisory Council and our collaboration with parents and caregivers across the state. Your gift helps us shape policy and make parent and youth voices heard. Help us continue to make a difference for children and families in North Carolina by donating to NC Child today.

Together, we are creating a better tomorrow for children and families in North Carolina. We won’t stop until we:

• Get health coverage for every parent and caregiver in North Carolina;
• Make high-quality child care & early education affordable for thousands more families;
• Create a mental health system that supports our children’s well-being starting at birth;
• Make our state a place where children have the opportunity to thrive – whatever their race, ethnicity, or place of birth.

These ambitious priorities and our mission to create a better and more equitable future for children in North Carolina inspired me to join NC Child’s team. As a mother, daughter, sister, and aunt, I know what’s at stake for kids, and I am committed to doing what it takes to pass public policies that will benefit every family across the state.

It is an honor to step into this role and work with the incredible team at NC Child, and I am so grateful to collaborate with inspiring advocates like you. Together, we are a strong voice for children in North Carolina. I hope you will consider making a generous year-end gift so we can continue speaking up for kids and families now and into the future.

With gratitude and hope,

Erica Palmer Smith,
Executive Director