#United States #Baltimore #Annie E. Casey Foundation #Allison Gerber #Economic Opportunity

New Leadership at the Annie E. Casey Foundation

The Annie E. Casey Foundation has announced a significant leadership change, appointing Allison Gerber as the Vice President for the Center for Economic Opportunity. With her extensive experience in economic and workforce development spanning over two decades, Gerber is poised to make a substantial impact in promoting financial stability for families and young individuals throughout the United States. Her official start date in this pivotal role is January 6, 2025.

Gerber has been a prominent figure at the Annie E. Casey Foundation since 2013, where she has crafted strategies focused on workforce training, apprenticeships, and collaboration with both public and private sector partners. Notably, as a senior associate, she was instrumental in launching the Generation Work initiative, designed to equip low-income youths with essential job skills and credentials. This initiative has successfully expanded to eight cities, effectively addressing the skills gap and empowering young people to secure better job opportunities.

In 2021, Gerber was appointed as the director of employment, education, and training, where she played an essential role in enhancing access to education and workforce development for youths, particularly those facing barriers to success. Her dedication to economic mobility is evidenced through her innovative approaches aimed at fostering an inclusive workforce development environment.

Lisa Hamilton, the President and CEO of the Annie E. Casey Foundation, expressed her confidence in Gerber's capabilities, stating, "Allison's expertise in economic mobility and her commitment to inclusive workforce development make her an exceptional leader for the Center for Economic Opportunity." Hamilton further emphasized the importance of Gerber's vision and approach, which integrates education, support, and community collaboration to help families achieve long-term financial security.

Gerber’s appointment follows the passing of Patrice Cromwell in August 2024, a seasoned advocate for youth and family economic opportunity who held the same position for 20 years. In light of this leadership transition, Gerber has expressed her commitment to continuing the legacy of advancing economic opportunities for young people. "I am deeply honored to uphold the legacy of this vital work," she stated, underscoring her intent to build upon past successes while adapting strategies to meet the evolving demands of today’s job market.

Before joining the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Gerber was the Executive Director of the District of Columbia's Workforce Investment Council, coupled with her experience as a senior associate at the Aspen Institute’s Workforce Strategies Initiative. She holds a bachelor’s degree in American Studies and Public Administration from Sweet Briar College, along with a law degree from Tulane University.

About the Annie E. Casey Foundation

The Annie E. Casey Foundation is dedicated to improving the future of the nation's children and families by developing effective solutions that promote economic opportunity and transform struggling communities into safer, healthier environments. To learn more about their initiatives, visit www.aecf.org.