YWCA to host 5th annual Maternal Health Summit in Wilmington
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The YWCA Lower Cape Fear is set to host its 5th annual Maternal Health Summit later this month, bringing together healthcare leaders, advocates and community members to address maternal health outcomes across southeastern North Carolina.
The event, titled “Before the Bump and Beyond,” will take place Thursday, April 16 at the UNCW Burney Center. The summit is held in partnership with the UNCW College of Health and Human Services.
Now in its fifth year, the summit focuses on improving maternal health across the full continuum of care—from preconception through postpartum. Organizers say the event aims to identify gaps in care while advancing equitable, community-driven solutions.
“This summit creates a powerful space where lived experience, clinical expertise, and community leadership intersect,” said Velva Jenkins, president and CEO of YWCA Lower Cape Fear. “Our goal is to move beyond conversation and toward solutions that ensure every mother has access to safe, equitable, and compassionate care.”
The program will feature speakers from across the healthcare and advocacy sectors, including representatives from Novant Health and the March of Dimes, as well as community leaders and researchers. Dr. Khadijia Tribié Reid of The Endowment will deliver the keynote address.
As part of the event, the YWCA will present its Trailblazer Leadership Awards during the Salome Taylor Luncheon, honoring Frankie Roberts of LINC, Inc. and Louise Coggins of Lift Up the Vulnerable for their contributions to maternal and community health advocacy.
Organizers say the summit is supported by several regional partners, including healthcare providers and nonprofit organizations working to improve outcomes for families across the region.
