This year, the National WIC Association (NWA) proudly celebrates 40 years of advocacy and innovation. Since its founding in 1985, NWA has been at the forefront of advancing and advocating for the health and well-being of mothers, babies, and young children across the country supporting WIC staff and state agencies, and championing policies that make a lasting impact.
As we reflect on this incredible milestone, it’s impossible to overlook the dedicated individuals who bring NWA’s mission to life every day. From advocating for WIC program improvements and policies to supporting NWA members nationwide, the NWA staff has been the driving force behind four decades of progress. However, this celebration is not ours alone—staff from more than 12,000 WIC service providers have played a major role in making WIC what it is today. Their unwavering commitment to serving families and fostering healthier communities has been instrumental in shaping the success of WIC and its impact on millions of lives.
To honor NWA’s 40th, we asked our team to share their thoughts on what it means to be part of NWA, the joys of serving the WIC community, and the significance of celebrating 40 years of innovation and advocacy.
40 Years of Empowering WIC Staff and Participants
For 40 years, NWA has been a driving force behind WIC, strengthening the program through advocacy, professional development, and direct support. With a dedicated team of 19 staff members, NWA is a small but mighty organization committed to making a lasting impact.
Public Policy Director Ali Hard emphasizes that "public policy and programs like WIC make an enormous difference in people’s lives," a commitment reflected in NWA’s ongoing efforts to secure funding, expand access, and modernize WIC services. This includes advocating for the WIC budget for FY2025 and pushing for policies that strengthen program access and delivery.
Supporting WIC staff is central to NWA’s mission. Senior Membership and Events Associate Sarah Younker sees her role as a way to uplift those on the front lines: “I wanted to be as much of a help and cheerleader for WIC as I could.” That dedication is evident in NWA’s professional development initiatives, from webinars and national conferences to the NWA Online Community that connects WIC staff nationwide.
Meet the Teams Behind NWA’s Mission
Beyond advocacy and community-building, NWA’s impact is driven by dedicated teams specializing in policy, membership services, communications, research, and technology.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
Looking Ahead to the Next 40 Years
As we celebrate 40 years of NWA, our commitment to advocating for WIC, supporting WIC staff development, and advancing technology-driven solutions remains stronger than ever. We’d love for our members, WIC staff, and supporters to celebrate with us – get involved in our conferences and events, share your WIC memories, and take action by contacting your elected officials to advocate for WIC funding in FY25. Together, we can shape the future of WIC. Here’s to the next 40 years of impact and innovation!
%20(1).jpg){kind=link}