Remembering Anita Brentley, A True Champion of Hamilton County Families

Families in our community lost a true champion over theweekend. Anita Brentley made it her life’s mission to champion families. In herwork with Every Child Succeeds and then All Children Thrive, she led the way inteaching partners the importance of including families in their work. We aregrateful for all that she gave as a member of the Cradle Cincinnati AdvisoryBoard. Below are reflections from her friend and colleague Dawn Denno, SeniorDirector of Population and Community Health at Cincinnati Children’s.  

Anita Brentley always, everyday put parents and patients first. She made sure that their voices were elevated in all conversations. If you spent any time with her, you heard her ask, “What about the families?” She often put me in her car and drove me around the community pointing out places where we could do more for our families. Meanwhile, her cell phone would ring with parents calling her. Some called to share good news. Some called because they were in crises and knew they could depend on Anita. She would pull her car over and do what needed to be done to help. It may be hunger. It may be incarceration. It may be eviction. If she could not find someone to help, she would go herself.

Anita held us all to high standards and because of that, I for one, became a better person. Miss Anita gave you the eye and you knew you should quickly check your words and behavior. She mentored many. Just last week someone I did not know visited my office asking about Anita. She told me that Anita was her mentor. I know that there are hundreds of us who have been graced by her guidance.

Anita built bridges. She did not let anger or petty jealousies influence her work. She saw the big picture and brought very diverse opinions and groups together. Again, she did it for families so she knew that her own personal frustrations had to take a back seat. Because of this, she was trusted. She seriously and intentionally did whatever it took to remain worthy of trust.

Anita was very human. She motivated us with her humor. She kicked us in the pants when we needed it. And, she made mistakes. She often came to talk through situations she worried she handled poorly. She wanted to do the right thing and sometimes questioned herself.

Anita cared deeply for all of us. I have been assured that we were always in her thoughts. And, we care deeply about her. Each of us will find our way to grieve. We will look for ways to help each other through this because this will take time. Our thoughts and prayers are with Anita’s family and the many people she has touched.