April Luong

Background

About April Luong

As the Early Childhood Funders Collaboratives first and much needed role as the Grantee Partnership Associate, I play a unique role in our organization balancing work for both the Raising Child Care Fund (RCCF) and the Racial Equity and Justice Fund (RJEF). I get to lead the coordination of relationship-building efforts and peer-to-peer learning among ECFC’s 30+ grantee partners, while also supporting the development of grantmaking and operational strategies alongside the fund directors. My responsibilities range from direct and individual grantee support to creating shared learning opportunities for all of them and elevating all of their work and voices to philanthropic foundations and other interested supported. This means I play a key role in communicating and designing program and projects with a diverse network of high-profile staff and organizations, vendors, and key stakeholders. I get to facilitate positive co-strategy relationships and promote equity between funders and grantees. Some special projects that I am proud to be part of are co-leading ECFC's Indigenous Early Childhood Workgroup and supporting in person convenings and conferences. With over a decade of experience in early childhood care and community-based programming, I bring b a deep commitment to equitable, grantee-centered practices. My background includes leading children’s programming at a large non-denominational church in Seattle and working in child care settings. I am driven by connection, collaboration, and ensuring others feel seen, known, and valued.