Yohanny Ana Garcia-Ashley
Dallas,GA
Summary
Dynamic community organizer and former Executive Director of the Gamaliel Network, offering over 35 years of expertise in advancing social justice, faith-based community organizing, and equitable public policy. Proven track record in mobilizing diverse groups to drive impactful change and foster inclusive dialogue. Committed to empowering communities through strategic advocacy and collaborative initiatives that promote social equity. Recognized for innovative approaches that bridge gaps between grassroots movements and institutional frameworks.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
Gamaliel Network
01.2012 - 01.2025
- Launched the Fire of Faith campaign, projected to save or create nearly 1 million jobs within three years and revitalize interfaith community engagement.
- Spearheaded initiatives on transportation equity, civil rights for immigrants, predatory lending, and congressional spending policies.
- Oversaw national leadership training as senior trainer, mentoring organizers across the network.
- Focused on integrating faith and politics into community organizing, emphasizing civic engagement, environmental sustainability, and social justice.
- Led a national network of over 1,000 interfaith congregations across 17 U.S. states, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Website: https://www.gamaliel.org
Associate Director
Gamaliel Foundation
01.2009 - 01.2012
- Coordinated national campaigns, including Civil Rights for Immigrants.
- Developed systems to support affiliate organizations and leadership training programs.
Lead Organizer
MICAH (Milwaukee Inner City Congregations Allied for Hope)
01.1990 - 01.1999
- Organized a successful local campaign securing a $500 million reinvestment commitment from city banks, enabling access to affordable housing for thousands of low-income families.
- Founded WISDOM, the Gamaliel-affiliated Wisconsin state organization.
Early Organizing Work
Denver, USA
Education
Bachelor’s degree -
University of Colorado
Theological studies - faith-based community organizing and congregational leadership
Iliff School of Theology
Skills
- Faith-based community organizing
- Interfaith coalition building
- Leadership training
- Mentorship for grassroots organizers
- Policy advocacy
- Transportation equity
- Housing justice
- Economic justice
- Community engagement
- Civic initiatives
- Social change campaigns
- Strategic campaign planning
- Execution of social justice initiatives
Attributes
- Blends faith and politics to guide organizing efforts
- Known for effective coalition building, mentorship, and visionary leadership
- Deeply committed to empowering marginalized communities and advancing equity
Contact Information - Websites
- Https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=46b2db610d0cb65ecd0e960d2089bd470c127ee7adefacd25202b66b5d60f687JmltdHM9MTc2OTI5OTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=002c240e-3ac3-6ce6-3ce9-373b3bef6dc2&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9nYW1hbGllbC5vcmcvYW5hLWdhcmNpYS1hc2hsZXkv&ntb=1
- Https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=384cc35b3177475a6a205645956a750974c593ab7183031c9fac19869c71e6ceJmltdHM9MTc2OTI5OTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=002c240e-3ac3-6ce6-3ce9-373b3bef6dc2&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9qb2JzdG9tb3ZlYW1lcmljYS5vcmcvcGVvcGxlL2FuYS1nYXJjaWEtYXNobGV5Lw&ntb=1
- Https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ecf4fc4f0f1a1b798b89d8ae5eff0ccae0a540ca1e5151b5c6b1508c8c856334JmltdHM9MTc2OTI5OTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=002c240e-3ac3-6ce6-3ce9-373b3bef6dc2&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaHVmZnBvc3QuY29tL2F1dGhvci9hbmEtZ2FyY2lhYXNobGV5&ntb=1
- Https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=7457a7db60c606be7e1b6f752c4cbae25aa518b968ea6f8571d312cec969121cJmltdHM9MTc2OTI5OTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=002c240e-3ac3-6ce6-3ce9-373b3bef6dc2&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zb2pvLm5ldC9tYWdhemluZS9tYXktMjAxMi9kb2luZy1pdC1oYXJkLXdheQ&ntb=1
Skills And Areas Of Impact
- Faith-based community organizing and interfaith coalition building
- Leadership training and mentorship for grassroots organizers
- Policy advocacy in transportation equity, housing, and economic justice
- Engaging local communities in civic initiatives and social change campaigns
- Strategic campaign planning and execution for large-scale social justice initiatives
Legacy
Ana Garcia-Ashley retired in 2025 after 35 years of continuous contribution to national and local social justice advocacy, leaving a legacy of strengthened communities and impactful grassroots organizing.
Locations
- Franklin, WI
- Atlanta, GA
Awards
- First woman of color to lead a national community organizing network, faith-based or otherwise
- Recognized for her lifelong commitment to social justice and community empowerment
Personal Information
- Number of Children: 2
- Marital Status: Married
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Executive Director
Gamaliel Network
01.2012 - 01.2025
Associate Director
Gamaliel Foundation
01.2009 - 01.2012
Lead Organizer
MICAH (Milwaukee Inner City Congregations Allied for Hope)
01.1990 - 01.1999
Theological studies - faith-based community organizing and congregational leadership
Iliff School of Theology
Early Organizing Work
Bachelor’s degree -
University of Colorado