Marshelle Wilburn: A Welcome from New Children Rising Executive Director
By Marshelle | December 16, 2025
Stepping into leadership at Children Rising with gratitude, care, and a deep focus on children
Dear Children Rising family,
As I step into the role of executive director of Children Rising, I am filled with gratitude and a deep sense of purpose. This work brings me back to my first calling—walking alongside children as they discover their God-given potential and come to know they are seen, heard, known, and loved.
“I am grateful to lead Children Rising forward with care, integrity, and a deep focus on children.” – Marshelle Wilburn, executive director of Children Rising
I also want to express my sincere appreciation for Jim Wambach’s leadership. His steady presence, encouragement, and unwavering commitment to our kids have shaped a team that serves with deep dedication and joy.
Jim reminded us that everything begins with the children—their hope, their future, their opportunity to thrive. It is an honor to build upon the strong foundation he helped create.
As I begin this new chapter, I want to listen carefully to our volunteers and tutors, our school partners, and the parents and caregivers who are a child’s first teachers. We will continue to center our work on caring, one-on-one relationships, and supportive family engagement.
This approach excites me deeply because it reflects what I have studied, practiced, and witnessed, bringing real change to young lives. Because this work is entrusted to us, I am deeply committed to integrity and stewardship, using every resource in ways that truly serve our children.
My love for Oakland and the East Bay runs deep. Our family’s roots in this city and my children’s experiences attending Oakland schools have shown me again and again the resilience, brilliance, and possibility within our children. I look forward to working with you to seek the peace, prosperity, and well-being of this community, serving more children and families in deeper, more meaningful ways.
And yet, the need has never been greater. More students are seeking academic support, and more families are asking for partnership. This is a pivotal moment that calls us to respond with hope, courage, and tangible action.
To our volunteers, tutors, and supporters: you are invaluable and incomparable. As the children continue to make progress, I hope you will join me in helping them hold onto that momentum.
If you feel led to make a gift during this transition, your generosity will make a meaningful difference, allowing more children to move forward with confidence and hope.
In gratitude and service,
Marshelle A. Wilburn
Executive Director
Children Rising
(510) 588-1821
P.S. I would love the chance to meet you, whether over coffee or a brief phone call. Please feel free to reach out to me directly at (510) 588-1821.
P.P.S. You can read the full announcement of my appointment here.