


Ira Hillman
Strategy Lead, Bonding
I lead Einhorn Collaborative’s Bonding strategy, supporting collectives of funders and programs that help parents and their babies establish and maintain emotional connection from birth.
Most rewarding moment since joining Einhorn Collaborative
In 2023, I was fortunate to be part of the Steering Committee that launched Nurture Connection, the movement to promote strong, positive, and nurturing early relationships to build healthier, resilient, and more connected communities. Over the course of nearly a year, a diverse group of physicians, parent leaders, program providers, researchers, and policy experts listened and learned from a variety of voices in the field to create a network that contributes to and accelerate progress on the critical issues of early relational health.
Something people may not know about me
I have visited all 50 states – a project I completed soon after my 50th birthday. Next up, seven continents by my 70th birthday!
Something that inspires me
The astute observations, probing questions, and generous spirit of my two children. As they become adolescents, I continue to learn so much from them as they fuel my work and spark joy and wonder in my life.
Before Einhorn Collaborative
I spent more than two decades in the nonprofit sector, working with organizations in health care, the arts, higher education, and advocacy to transform their operations, develop new strategies, and build stronger collaborations among stakeholder groups.
New Pathways for Equity and Impact in Early Childhood
Our Bonding Strategy Lead Ira Hillman spoke on a panel with Lisa Chamberlain, Ryan Padrez, Tumaini Coker, and Kitty Lopez at the convening to launch Stanford’s new Center on Early Childhood.
The Risks and Rewards of Sharing Power With Your Community
While there is much talk within philanthropy about bringing people with diverse experiences to the table, it’s clear more still needs to be done to ensure that community members are given opportunities for participation and decision making equal to the so-called traditional experts.
Five Principles for Fostering Connection with Children During Times of Transition
During times of transition and challenge, parents and caregivers can regain a sense of calm by embracing adaptability and choosing connection rather than control.