About Us

Our Mission

The African American Breastfeeding Network Inc. was established in 2008 to improve maternal child health and champion breastfeeding equity by (1) advocating system/policy changes, (2) partnering with community allies and (3) implementing community-based, family-centered, culturally tailored health education and support services.

Our Founders

AABN was founded by Angelia Wilks-Tate (left) and Dalvery Blackwell (right) set their eyes on addressing breastfeeding disparities and came together on a sunny June afternoon with a host of community leaders to discuss forming an organization. At the time Dalvery, was a breastfeeding peer in Milwaukee County WIC program, and Angie was the MLK Heritage Health Center WIC Project, Director. The two together with supporters and advocates set-out on to create a community-led organization which has become known now as the African American Breastfeeding Network Inc. Dalvery serves as the agency's first Executive Director. Angie serves as the President of the Board Directors.

  • Angie Wilks Tate

    Angie Wilks Tate

    Board President

  • Jennifer Ortner

    Board Secretary

  • Rosetta Washington

    Board Member

  • Erica Morrell

    Board Member

  • Kanika Markland

    Board Member

  • Rashidah Butler Jackson

    Board Member

  • Lakeesha Brown

    Board Member

  • Dalvery Blackwell

    Executive Director, Co-Founder

  • Tenia Ruffin

    Administrative Assistant & Office Manager

  • Whitney Bingham

    WeRISE Program Director / Doula

  • Phoenix Sumling

    Full-time Doula / WeRISE Program Assistant

  • Shantique Smith-Hayes

    Breastfeeding Coordinator

  • Shay Knox

    Community Lactation Specialist

  • Khola Cooksey

    Community Lactation Specialist

  • Nigeria Nealy

    Community Lactation Specialist

Celebrate community progress

View our 2020 Annual Report

Our Partners