In August 2022, LIIF launched a National Early Care and Education Practitioners Advisory Committee (NEPAC) as part of its efforts to center the voices of providers. The group comprises leaders in the early care and education (ECE) field who have successfully used LIIF grant funds in the past. Our aligned values are sustainability, respect, dignity and change, and our NEPAC geographies served are New York City, California, Washington, D.C., Atlanta and Texas.
These providers work daily to set up all children for success – no matter the ZIP code into which they are born. Via listening and learning circles, the collaborative ideates and shares best practices around issues running the gamut from policy to climate mitigation to co-location of child care in affordable housing developments.
Below is a highlight from NEPAC’s Atlanta member, Billie Walker, so you can learn about them and their vision for their community.
Member Profile
Billie Walker, Westside Early Learning Family Childcare
Bio: Billie Walker is the owner of Westside Early Learning Family Childcare and a passionate early childhood educator with a strong background in the nonprofit sector. She brings a wealth of experience in e-learning, life coaching, transition management, team building, and teacher training. At her center, Billie emphasizes holistic development and hands-on learning, working closely with partners like Historic Westside Gardens to create enriching educational environments.
A dedicated community advocate, Billie moved to Atlanta’s English Avenue neighborhood in 2006 and soon led a grassroots effort to transform a vacant lot into Mattie Freeland Park. Her leadership and commitment to creating safe, vibrant spaces for children earned her the 2023 Community Change Maker Award at Atlanta Habitat’s THRIVE Awards. Through the LIIF-supported PAACT Repair and Renovations grant program, Billie also secured major facility upgrades for her center, including a new roof, HVAC system, flooring, and cabinetry.
Billie’s work continues to uplift families and inspire change, bridging early education with community-building to create a lasting impact in West Atlanta.