The Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation is honored to be part of the East of the Anacostia River community, where resilience and determination thrive every day. We are inspired by the work of the Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC), an organization founded in 1983 with the vision of giving the people of Anacostia a voice in shaping their future. ACC’s efforts to unite residents, leaders, and organizations around shared goals resonate deeply with our mission to empower Black women, especially those in Anacostia and surrounding neighborhoods. Together, we are committed to creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and building a brighter future for all.

For over 35 years, Academy of Hope (AoH) has empowered adult learners through education and career training. In partnership with the Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation (JBRF), AoH is deepening its impact by addressing systemic barriers to economic opportunity. AoH serves over 800 learners annually, offering pathways from GED preparation to career-specific training in fields like healthcare and IT. Through flexible programs, AoH helps learners achieve economic self-sufficiency. This collaboration focuses on racial equity and providing essential resources to support long-term success.

For over 25 years, Ambrose Lane Jr. has been a driving force in health equity advocacy in Washington, D.C., championing the rights of marginalized communities through the Health Alliance Network. His dedication shines through initiatives like Her Story Matters, an annual celebration of African American women’s resilience against breast cancer. As JBRF joins Ambrose in honoring this milestone, we invite you to learn more about his impactful work and the inspiring stories of strength that continue to transform health outcomes in our community.

At the Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation (JBRF), we are committed to addressing economic disparities and enhancing health outcomes for Black women in Washington, D.C., particularly in Wards 7 and 8. As part of our dedication to supporting Black women-led nonprofits and systemic change, we are proud to highlight our partnership with the Center for Nonprofit Advancement through the Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP).

Jaren Hill Lockridge is a driving force behind health equity in Washington, D.C.’s Ward 8. As Chair of the Ward 8 Health Council, she leads initiatives that bring essential resources directly to underserved communities. Her work in environmental justice and public health highlights her dedication to creating a healthier future. Jaren’s leadership and passion make her a beacon of hope and change in her community.

In Washington, D.C., the Anacostia River symbolizes the divide between Wards 7 and 8 and the broader opportunities found across the city. Black women from these wards often face long commutes for better jobs, underscoring the need for inclusive workforce development. Addressing barriers like wage disparity, transportation access, and systemic inequities is essential for enhancing economic mobility. By focusing on education, fair hiring practices, and access to childcare, we can create a more equitable future for these resilient communities.

Cancer doesn’t discriminate, but outcomes and access to care often do, especially for Black families in Washington, D.C. Black women face unique hurdles, with higher mortality rates and significant inequalities in care access. Addressing these disparities requires raising awareness about prevention, screening, and treatment. Efforts by organizations like JBRF and Black Women Thriving East of the River are crucial in improving cancer outcomes and addressing economic and health challenges in underserved communities. Every step forward in this mission is significant, reflecting a united commitment to health equity and quality cancer care for all.

In the vibrant heart of Wards 7 and 8 in Washington, D.C., visionary women have driven transformative change by addressing social determinants of health through education and housing. Trailblazers like Mary Jane Patterson and Nannie Helen Burroughs laid educational foundations, while Dorothy Height and Ella Baker championed housing rights and civil rights, respectively. Today, organizations like JBRF and Black Women Thriving East of the River (BWTEoTR), led by Nakeisha Neal Jones, continue this legacy, working to reduce racial, health, and economic disparities and fostering a future where every individual has the opportunity to succeed.

East of the Anacostia River, disparities persist: historic segregation, economic inequality, and limited healthcare access. With a median household income of $30,000 for a family of four—far below the city and national averages—residents face significant challenges. Efforts like the Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center aim to bridge the gap, offering hope for a more equitable future. By empowering residents and addressing root causes, we aim to create a Washington, D.C., where all thrive, regardless of zip code.

Despite historical progress, healthcare and economic challenges persist East of the River, gravely impacting Black women who reside in Wards 7 and 8 communities. Recognizing the urgency is the first step to uncovering patterns that display systemic issues. We believe that every individual deserves the chance to thrive, regardless of socioeconomic status, and that collective action is of utmost importance today.