India shared her experience of working through a government shutdown, describing the initial sense of relief from the usual office stress but noting that the shutdown became more concerning when reduction in force notices were issued on October 10th.

She explained that her division was included in the reduction in force, though the outcome remains uncertain due to ongoing lawsuits. India also discussed the broader context of workplace challenges, including the impact of DEI crackdowns and executive orders on her division's work with grantees, and the burnout she felt after hosting a major convening event just before the shutdown.

India discussed her career transition from social work and public health into maternal and child health, focusing on her role as a public health analyst and project officer at HRSA's Maternal and Child Health Bureau. She oversaw Healthy Start programs across 115 grantees in the US and Puerto Rico, working with nonprofits, universities, and health departments to implement community-based perinatal health services since 1991. India shared her experience working with diverse teams and communities, noting the rewarding nature of her work despite the challenges posed by annual government shutdown threats.

If you are able to assist India in any way, reach out to her via Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/india_renae_

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