Head Start Advocacy in Washington D.C.

As we celebrate Head Start Awareness Month, advocacy remains an important part of building a stronger future for children and families. Amid ongoing discussions about proposed changes to Head Start standards, ECS leadership met with the offices of Rep. Juan Vargas and Sen. Alex Padilla during the National Head Start Association's Fall Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C., to discuss the importance of investing in early childhood education.

By sharing the experiences and needs of the families we serve, these conversations help advance opportunities for children to learn, grow, and thrive.

Rosa Cabrera-Jaime, ECS Director of Early Childhood Education & Family Services, and Leticia Alvarez, ECS Assistant Director of Head Start pose with Lizbeth Casco White, Director of the Office of Head Start. October 2026.

ECS leaders visited the office of Rep. Juan Vargas to connect on Head Start priorities and impacts. October 2026.

ECS Delegates in Sacramento

Sacramento, CA — Last week, ECS CEO Elizabeth Wilberg and Director of Communications & Advocacy Adrienne Wilkerson joined the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce in Sacramento for its annual advocacy trip.

In collaboration with local, regional, and state leaders, Elizabeth and Adrienne helped ensure that the voices of our communities and the families and clients ECS serves are represented in conversations that shape California’s future.

Leaders across a variety of San Diego organizations joined together to advocate for the needs of their community. February 2026.

Childcare Roundtable with Assemblymember Chris Ward

Last week, ECS attended a child care roundtable with Assemblymember Chris Ward and Children First Collective, centering the voices of San Diego children and families.

As the discussion concluded, there was a renewed sense of urgency and solidarity, and a shared commitment to turn dialogue into the action our communities need.

Roundtable attendees gather for a photo with Assemblymember Ward. January 2026.

ECS Leadership Attends Congressional Luncheon

(From left to right) Dir. of Communications and Advocacy Adrienne Wilkerson, Dir. of Development Tim Whipple, and CEO Elizabeth (Fitzsimons) Wilberg make ECS’ voice heard at luncheon. June 2025.

Earlier this week, ECS leadership attended the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Congressional Luncheon.

Regional leaders and elected officials came together for a thoughtful discussion on healthcare, childcare, housing, border infrastructure, and the economy.

Thank you to the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce for convening this important event for our community.