Rashida Abuwala Email & Phone Number

New York, United States

Equity and community-driven solutions and services for philanthropies, policy and mission-driven organizations to support community-centered research and change that amplify marginalized voices, build community power and end harmful systems. We provide services in three areas: liberatory philanthropic advising, just and equitable research, and, the transformation of the child welfare/family regulation and juvenile legal systems. Recent clients include Casey Family Programs, Youth and Families Forward Fund, Children's Rights, Center for Community Alternatives, Bravehearts MOVE.

Greater New York City Area

Lead foundation's systems change efforts throughout NY State foster systems (excluding NYC) through grant-making, research and knowledge-building in partnership with community-based, nonprofit, county and state government entities.

Led the strategic development, evaluation and management of programs serving 3,000 members annually in 3 NYC facilities and a 110-acre camp in NJ, reporting to the CEO. Define and manage $8 million budget and 10 staffCo-developed 5-year strategic plan, resulting in expanded services and improved member academic, mental and physical health and social-emotional outcomes; helped gain 10+ funding streams, $1 million in revenue and increased press coverageOther positions held:- Director of Program Development and Evaluation (Aug 2011-Sept 2013): introduced 15+ new programs; designed and launched first evaluation system; standardized and refined existing programs; increased member attendance by 10%; improved community, parent and Board engagement- Interim Director of Foundation and Corporate Giving (Dec 2011-Sept 2013): Exceeded annual new funding goal by 13% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013

Led the assessment and quality assurance efforts for over 40 programs serving 8000 children, young adults and adults. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to assess the feasibility of, prioritize, guide and design/conduct evaluation and program improvement.Worked with executive staff to develop short and long-term program goals, strategically develop programs and ensure compliance with government contracts.

Assessed, forecasted and reported on economic, political, civil unrest, war and terrorism risks in India as a consultant.

Designed methodology, planned, managed and co-authored the first comparative evaluation of a community housing court; created an original survey (N=343) and observation tool to evaluate court appearances (N=400).Oversaw research, data collection tools (9 surveys, 10 databases) and managed performance targets for 11 programs.

Successfully lobbied Legislature to prevent tuition hikes and maintain financial aid for public higher education.Coordinated 6 advocacy campaigns, internship program and organized press events and wrote press releases.

Supported two longitudinal studies, entered and verified data, wrote project newsletter at the Center for Children and Families (part-time)

Master Of Science With Honors, (Social Research Methods, Comparative Politics)

Ba With Honors, (Political Theory And Studio Art)

Activities and Societies: CV Starr Scholar for Community Leadership, Davenport Research Grantee, Government Department Research Grantee

Education record

Competitively selected to participate in a nine-month multi-sector cohort exploring civic leadership and New York City public policy.