Josephine Kalipeni
“CAG’s work is based on a value that seems aligned with FORESIGHT. Looking for solutions to problems within a system that no longer serves us well doesnt seem like the right place to spend energy. Instead, reimagining the kind of system we really need – systems that bend the arc of justice, access, affordability, and equitable outcomes – that feels inspiring, possible, and empowering- especially when those of us who have been historically marginalized are centered. I believe that we can build new infrastructure informed by our best thinking and most current information that makes it possible for all of us – as individuals, as families, as communities – to thrive. I am also excited at how to think and plan strategically to breaking the public’s norms and short-sighted practices. The shared goal for a radically equitable future where all people are thriving is a prominent message that we advocate for at Caring Across Generations.”
Josephine’s expertise includes asset-based grassroots and faith organizing, public speaking, and policy development for issues-based campaigns in health, education, and international affairs, with a focus on racial and economic equity. Josephine initially worked in family case management and social work, assisting families navigating various public systems. Seeing firsthand the limitations and opportunities of social programs, she has worked to increase health access through public social policy for children and families. Josephine has provided technical and policy assistance to state organizations working on progressive policy and researched and developed state and national policy. Josephine has worked to increase health access through public social policy, with a focus on Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. Josephine focuses on public policy benefit design and issues campaigns development through community-based organizations. Josephine values developing policy through a collective impact and asset-based model that centers the experiences of those most impacted by the issue as the experts of formulating a solution. She has worked with organizations like the NAACP, Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, Progressive Action for the Common Good, and Families USA.
Josephine holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology with a concentration in political science and religious studies from the University of Illinois, a Mental Health Professional (MHP) certificate, and a Masters in Social Justice and Community Development with an expertise in global and health policy from Loyola University in Chicago. She is currently the Director of Policy and Federal Affairs at Caring Across Generations leading the work to develop state and federal policies of universal long-term and home and community based care.