Mission to Washington, D.C.

San Diego leaders in D.C. advocating for our region. April 2025.

ECS recently returned from the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Mission to Washington, D.C., where CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons and Director of Communications & Advocacy Adrienne Wilkerson engaged with local, state, and federal legislators to advocate for policies that uplift children, families, and communities across the San Diego region.

During the trip, they spoke with Representatives John Garamendi and Sara Jacobs, highlighting the importance of maintaining federal funding for Head Start and expanding support for early education programs.

ECS puts advocacy into action, interacting with San Diego and government leaders to garner support for our programs. April 2025.

They also participated in healthcare meetings with the offices of Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff and Representative Juan Vargas to emphasize the need for continued access to Medicaid for essential health services.

Elizabeth Fitzsimons (left) and Adrienne Wilkerson (right) build connections in D.C. April 2025.

ECS continues to champion solutions that strengthen its staff, support clients, and build a more equitable San Diego—on Capitol Hill and at home.

Learn more about ECS’ advocacy efforts: ecscalifornia.org/advocacy.

Leadership Delegation in Sacramento

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons and Communications Director Adrienne Wilkerson pose for a group photo at the 2025 Leadership Delegation. February 2025.

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons and Communications Director Adrienne Wilkerson joined regional leaders for the 2025 Leadership Delegation to Sacramento to advocate for policies that strengthen our community.

The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce trip focused on critical issues such as housing, healthcare, sustainability, business resiliency, innovation, and public safety.

Through high-impact discussions with local and state leaders, ECS pushed for stronger policies to support our most vulnerable populations and gained insights into upcoming legislation that will shape our region’s future.

By building relationships and driving meaningful policy change, ECS continues to be a voice for those who need it most. Learn more about our work at ecscalifornia.org.

ECS Supports Head Start in D.C.

In light of recent federal funding discussions, ECS advocates for Head Start and the key support it offers to our community. January 2025.

ECS and MAAC in Washington, D.C., for National Head Start Association's Winter Leadership Institute, advocating for early learning, engaging in professional development, and meeting with lawmakers—including visits to the offices of Representatives Darrell E. Issa and Juan Vargas.

With key funding decisions underway, we’re ensuring that Congress understands the vital role Head Start plays in supporting children, families, and communities. Together, we’re raising our voices to protect and expand access to early learning programs.

CEO Swears into City Human Relations Commission

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons signs paperwork as she swears into the Human Relations Commission as a 2025 Mayoral appointee.
January 2025.

ECS’ declared purpose is to cultivate a strong, vibrant, and just San Diego region. This purpose is demonstrated through ECS’ work, but also through the individual advocacy efforts of the ECS community, including our CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons. This week, Elizabeth demonstrated this effort through her appointment to the City of San Diego’s Human Relations Commission.

The Human Relations Commission’s mission is to “conduct and promote activities that foster mutual respect and understanding, protect basic human and civil rights, and create an atmosphere that promotes amicable relations among all members of the San Diego community.” By working with various groups throughout the city, sharing educational resources, mediating discrimination disputes, and advising the Mayor and Council, the Human Relations Commission is able to achieve their mission.

Elizabeth smiles with Chida Warren-Darby, Director of Appointments/Boards and Commissions for San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. January 2025.

ECS’ values go hand-in-hand with the work of the Human Relations Commission, particularly the values of Belonging, Respect, and Empowerment. ECS’ vision to have an abundant and equitable society where all have unlimited potential requires the efforts of groups like this commission.

Appointing nonprofit leaders to civic positions invites fresh, humanitarian focused perspectives which is crucial when it comes to advocating for human relation issues involving understanding and inclusion. Chida Warren-Darby, the Director of Appointments/Boards and Commissions for San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, commented on the significance of Elizabeth’s appointment. “Nonprofit leaders like Elizabeth bring a wealth of experience and compassion that is vital to the mission of the Human Relations Commission,” she said. “Their commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse communities not only enhances the Commission’s work but also enriches our collective pursuit of equity and justice.”

Congratulations to Elizabeth on her appointment to the City of San Diego’s Human Relations Commission! We’re proud to have a leader committed to advancing equity and inclusion in our community.