About
Why We Exist
Nanny Relief Fund was launched in April 2020 when the COVID-19 epidemic amplified the many inequities in the world of domestic employees, and the lack of protections and support accessible to nannies. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that continues to support nannies through the countless invisible financial hardships they face due to circumstances outside their control.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 1.1 million nannies currently working in the United States. This group is made up of 98% women (according to a survey by the International Nanny Association), has a high proportion of people of color and represents many different countries of origin. Unfortunately, over 90% of nannies are not paid legally, or paid ‘on the books’ by their employers, which means they are not eligible for worker’s compensation, unemployment, or other protections offered to employees of corporations. Many nannies, the unsung heroes behind many successful families, have been critically impacted financially because of writer’s strikes, pandemics, fires, hurricanes, economic turmoil, and other circumstances beyond their control. The choice for employers to NOT provide their employees lawful protections leaves many nannies financially vulnerable.
Nannies face so many hurdles in their mission to have their profession treated with the seriousness it deserves. They stand at risk of immediate termination with no cause, lack of medical care, lack of retirement funds and contributions, and lack of being paid legally.
Nannying can be a uniquely rewarding role, but it can also be incredibly isolating. When working in a private home, it is challenging for nannies to establish a sense of community and support. While there are organizations that provide fantastic resources to the nanny community, including the International Nanny Association and National Domestic Worker’s Alliance, the vast majority of nannies function independently with minimal resources available to them. Our goal is to provide a sense of relief to these cherished and drastically undervalued caregivers who are often overlooked by laws, assistance, and regulations.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Rachael L. Lubin is a highly accomplished and globe-trotting nanny who brings a wealth of experience and a passion for diversity to her work with families. Her journey, which spans continents and cultures, has enriched her understanding of child development and family dynamics.
A graduate of Hawai'i Pacific University with a BA in Geography, Rachael's curiosity about the world has led her to live and work in a diverse array of locations, including Brooklyn, Detroit, Canada, China, France, and numerous states across the US.
Rachael's commitment to professional development is evident in her impressive credentials. She is a Certified Professional Governess through the English Nanny and Governess School and a credentialed nanny through the International Nanny Association (INA). Her dedication to the nanny profession is further demonstrated by her service on the INA's Board of Directors since 2017.
Rachael's greatest strength lies in her vast network of connections within the nanny community. She cherishes her friendships with fellow nannies, agency owners, and educators, recognizing the power of collaboration and shared knowledge. Her background in social service, including her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters and teaching English in China, further demonstrates her commitment to serving others.
Sarah Foster is not just an INA-credentialed career nanny and house manager—she's a true champion for nannies and families alike. With 13 years of experience nurturing young minds and managing households with grace, Sarah has earned a reputation as a dedicated and passionate caregiver. Her commitment to excellence has even garnered national recognition, placing her among the top 5 nominees for the INA's Nanny of the Year award in both 2020 and 2021.
But Sarah's impact extends far beyond the individual families she serves. A true believer in the power of community, she tirelessly advocates for her fellow nannies. As the Community Director and Onboarding Specialist for CincyNanny, she fosters a supportive and empowering environment for caregivers. Her leadership extends to co-leading the Nanny Panel, a dynamic group that connects nannies in the Cincinnati area for social events and professional growth.
Sarah's dedication to elevating the nanny profession knows no bounds. As a founder of the Twin Cities Nanny Education Collective and the Minnesota Chapter Ambassador for the INA, she is a driving force in making high-quality education accessible to all nannies. From organizing International Nanny Training Day events to sharing her expertise as a Child Passenger Safety Technician at monthly car seat check events with the Minnesota Children's Hospital, Sarah is truly making a difference in the lives of countless families and caregivers. Her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a shining star in the nanny community.
Cynthia Crovetto is a ray of positivity, inclusivity, advocacy, and support, and she is super excited to join the NRF mission. She was born in Peru and is passionate about advocating for the Latina nanny community. Her every move within this industry is in the hope of supporting and encouraging the nannies around her to advocate for themselves. Higher pay, fair and legal pay, benefits, and ultimately—respect—are all issues close to Cynthia’s heart. Gone are the days of feeling less than—Cynthia has your back!
Cynthia has been a nanny for 14 years and has loved every challenge, warm moment, teaching opportunity, and connection she made throughout her time in the industry. Six years ago, she made the conscious choice to not only work IN the industry but work ON the industry. Many in our community know her as the leader of Nalany, a powerful small group of Latina nannies who pride themselves on advocacy. Cynthia is the oldest of 3 and loves her family something fierce!
Shenandoah Davis is the CEO and co-Founder of Adventure Nannies and founder of Invisible Consulting.
Shenandoah has served as a board advisor and board member to the International Nanny Association, Association of Premier Nanny Agencies, The Institute for Families and Nannies, several Entrepreneur’s Organization chapters, and Hand In Hand’s Agency Council. Shenandoah was the 2019 recipient of APNA’s Excellence Award and Innovation Award.
As the oldest of 4 children, Shenandoah has always been a helper and a leader. She loves to travel and has been to all 50 states and 19 countries and counting!. She currently resides outside of Asheville, North Carolina with partner and an ever-growing array of dogs and cats.
Candi Vajana's career path is a testament to the power of embracing diverse experiences. Her journey, though unconventional, reveals a carefully curated tapestry woven from global adventures and a deep-seated passion for childcare. Candi believes that every encounter holds a valuable lesson, and her resume reflects this philosophy.
From her early training as a Nursery Nurse (N.N.E.B) in England, Candi discovered her calling in nannying. She has dedicated her life to nurturing children of all ages, and her expertise extends far beyond traditional childcare. Candi has thrived in diverse roles, including Director of Admissions, Personal Assistant, Business Manager, and Human Resources Director at international schools, culminating in her position as School Director. These experiences have enriched her understanding of child development, family dynamics, and organizational leadership.
But Candi's heart always remained with the families and nannies she served. Today, she is a sought-after consultant, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with nannies, parents, agencies, and family offices worldwide.
Austin Macfarlane is a passionate, dedicated entrepreneur who truly enjoys the projects she works on. She’s the founder of Triangle Nannies in North Carolina and helped launch Tribucha, a functional beverage company out of Cary, North Carolina. In 2022, Austin co-launched Clarity Strategic Investments— a group that focuses on investing and advising early stage startups with high growth potential. The group primarily invests in technology and software businesses. She enjoys working with her Nanny Relief Fund team and previously served on the board of the International Nanny Association.
She is an adventurous soul who loves hiking, throwing balls for her dogs (Arlo and Tuna Mae), hosting friends and family, traveling, exploring thrift stores for hours upon hours, and checking out new restaurants. She has quite a green thumb and loves to garden and love on her many houseplants.
Carrie Kaczmarek Bland is a highly respected figure in the nanny community, known for her expertise, dedication, and advocacy for both nannies and the families they serve. A graduate of the esteemed English Nanny and Governess School, Carrie is a Certified Professional Nanny with over 12 years of experience.
Carrie's influence extends beyond her direct work with families. She is a passionate advocate for water safety and a champion for "nanny moms" – nannies who balance their professional careers with the joys and challenges of motherhood. After the birth of her son in 2020, Carrie began sharing her experiences and insights on social media, quickly gaining recognition for her authenticity and expertise.
Driven by a desire to strengthen the nanny community, Carrie founded Circle City Nannies in 2022. This thriving group connects nannies in Indianapolis, Indiana through regular events, playdates, and professional development opportunities, including the annual International Nanny Training Day. Her passion, experience, and dedication to supporting nannies make her an invaluable asset to the organization and the broader nanny community.
If you’re interested in donating your expertise to support our mission, please email us at info@nannyrelieffund.org.
Board Advisors
Jim Geikie
Jeremy Zhang
Tyler Johnson
Dr. Jennifer Powers
Past Board Members
Chevelle Frederick (2021-2025)
Sue Downey (2020-2022)
Laura Chandra (2020-2022)