ANNA ASHENFELTER

Anna Ashenfelter (she/they) believes every family deserves the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about nourishing their baby. As a WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor in Nome, Alaska, she offers that support in the community where she was born and raised.

Anna knows firsthand how much support can matter. When her son was born three weeks prematurely, she and her husband faced unexpected breastfeeding challenges. They worked closely with lactation consultants to keep him engaged during feedings, recognize when he was full, and monitor whether he was getting enough milk. With time and support, they reached their goal of breastfeeding until age two. Now two and a half years into their journey, that experience continues to shape how Anna supports other families.

For Anna, the most rewarding part of her work is being present for families at every stage: meeting them before their baby arrives, offering breastfeeding education tailored to their needs, and helping them work toward their own goals. She loves seeing families grow in confidence as they welcome their babies.

Anna’s message to the families she serves draws on the strength of generations before her: mothers and families raised their children long before formula existed, leaning on one another to get through hard moments together. As a Peer Counselor, Anna is proud to offer that same support for the families in her community.

CHEER celebrates Anna Ashenfelter for her dedication to breastfeeding education, her compassionate support for the growing families in Nome, and the personal journey that continues to inspire her work.