Jaelyn Edwards

Consultant 

Jaelyn Edwards (she, her, hers)  designs and strengthens social systems of support for young children and families. A skilled meeting facilitator and community engagement strategist, she brings empathy, structure, and creativity to every project she leads. Jaelyn’s work centers on uplifting community expertise and ensuring that families’ and providers’ voices shape the policies, programs, and systems that serve them.

With expertise in qualitative research and participatory planning, Jaelyn conducts interviews, focus groups, listening sessions, and surveys to inform community-driven strategic and communications planning. She facilitates cross-sector workgroups and steering committees to identify local challenges and co-develop solutions that advance equity and improve outcomes for children and families.

Jaelyn also manages evaluation and data synthesis efforts, leading qualitative and mixed-methods research processes. She provides technical assistance and capacity building for organizations seeking to operationalize feedback loops, embed continuous improvement, and meaningfully engage their communities in decision-making, such as the work done with Help Me Grow Los Angeles Pathways. With experience navigating public agencies, philanthropy, and local collaboratives, Jaelyn helps move systems toward equitable, community-driven change.

Before joining VIVA, Jaelyn worked in both direct care and clinical research settings focused on children and adults with developmental disorders. During her time at Stanford University, she managed autism research and contributed to published work in the field. Outside of work, Jaelyn enjoys crafting with clay and relaxing at the beach. She envisions a world where understanding and compassion for one another are societal norms.

Education

B.S., Psychology, Tulane University