About

Core Focus of FCCEF

FCCEF strengthens families and stabilizes educators by leading healing‑centered, housing‑focused, and crisis‑responsive solutions that build resilient communities where children and providers can thrive.

FCCEF Mission Statement

FCCEF strengthens families, stabilizes educators, and builds resilient communities by providing disaster relief, housing support, and holistic wellness resources for family child care providers. Through training, advocacy, and hands‑on assistance, we equip educators to heal, rebuild, and lead in their communities. Our mission is to ensure that every provider has the stability, tools, and support needed to thrive—no matter the crisis.

FCCEF Vision

FCCEF’s expanded vision is rooted in dignity, innovation, and legacy. Through strategic partnerships, capacity‑building, and advocacy, we will pioneer a model of care that centers healing, housing, and hope.

FCCEF Company Statement

We envision a future where family child care educators are not only equipped to nurture children but also empowered to lead community‑based solutions in times of crisis. By integrating disaster relief, homelessness support, and sustainable housing into our framework, FCCEF will build resilient ecosystems where children, families, and educators thrive—even in the face of adversity.

FCCEF’s Values

Dignity

We honor the humanity, expertise, and lived experiences of every educator and family we serve.

Resilience

We help communities prepare for, withstand, and recover from crises with strength and stability.

Innovation

We design forwardthinking solutions that address housing, wellness, and emergency response.

Equity

We ensure that the most vulnerable providers and families receive the support they deserve.

Compassion

We lead with empathy, care, and a deep commitment to healing.

Legacy

We build systems that uplift future generations of educators, children, and families.

Administrative Team

Vantoinette “Ms. Toni” Savage

President

Patricia King

Board Vice President

Alissa Rhodes

Governance Administrator

Tameka Hill-Brunson

Treasurer & Board Administrator 

Jay Franklin Foster

Board of Directors

Wanda Pendergrass

Director of Outreach & Partnership

Omega Wilcox

Director Community Engagement Coordinator

Karita Pimentel

Membership Operation Manager 

Board Ambassadors

Dr. Katrina S. Chance

Director of Programs

Brandi Mills

FCCEF Board Ambassador: Region 8

Stephanie Shell

FCCEF Board Ambassador: Region 12

Laurie Monri

FCCEF Board Ambassador

FCCEF News & Media Highlights

Responding to Crisis: Cash Aid in Times of Disaster

Disaster on Top of a Disaster: Can Western North Carolina’s Child Care Infrastructure Recover After Helene?

‘We need it’: Child care employer expressing major concerns about public funds ending in July

When a hurricane washes away a region’s child care system

Western NC child care programs, ‘already in a fragile state,’ hit by Helene

When a hurricane washes away a region’s child care system

Celebrating the Trailblazing Leadership of Vantoinette Savage: Appointed to the North Carolina Child Care Commission