Becky Vlamis believes truth telling plays an instrumental role in systemic change. Her curiosity drew her to a career in public radio, where, for 10 years, she produced and directed news programs for WBEZ and NPR. She co-ran a home inspection business for another decade, handling operations, financials, and communications.
In 2023, she pivoted to the advocacy space to make a broader impact. As the Communications Manager for the Shriver Center on Poverty Law, she oversees the organization’s website. She also writes content that uplifts the Shriver Center’s advocacy work, trainings, and events. Becky is a proud mom and graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In her free time, she volunteers for a parrot rescue and is an occasional sophisti-pop DJ.
Illinois’ 2026 budget was a crucial test of the state’s willingness to fight the ongoing federal attacks on our social safety net and the basic rights of our residents. Unfortunately, lawmakers failed to deliver a bill to protect Illinois from potentially devasting cuts to Medicaid and other essential programs that support low-income families.
Nearly 50 people gathered in Concord, New Hampshire for "Justice in Housing: New England," a unique opportunity to elevate a region that's often drowned out of the national discussion about housing.
Despite the challenging climate, our advocates are working tirelessly to win support for our legislative agenda for Illinois, which envisions a state where everyone can thrive. While it’s impossible to predict how the legislative and budget processes will play out, we’re ready to meet the moment.
The Shriver Center on Poverty Law is taking action in the face of unprecedented threats to democracy and the social safety net. Our 2025 legislative agenda bolsters the anti-poverty programs and benefits residents rely on. From providing cash assistance to struggling families and increasing worker protections, to removing barriers to housing; our proposed legislation creates a fairer state where everyone can thrive.
The presidential elections are less than a week away. The results could affect everything from reproductive rights and the state of democracy to the programs and policies that support people experiencing poverty. The Shriver Center on Poverty Law spoke with a number of our advocates about how — or whether — the outcome of the 2024 elections will shape their work.
As difficult as that feels, ending poverty is ultimately a policy choice. We already know that measures like the child tax credit and progressive taxation can lift all boats. As we head toward Election Day, we must remember that when we center poverty in our politics, we all win.
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