Chris Whitford

Chris Whitford is the visionary CEO and a Founding Member of Avail, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting people navigating unintended pregnancies for over two decades. A dynamic leader and Praxis fellow, Chris has guided Avail's evolution from a grassroots initiative in New York City, created by seven women in response to a friend's unintended pregnancy and the lack of nonjudgmental, non-political resources into a national organization offering both in-person and digital care platforms that provide holistic, confidential support across the United States and internationally.

Chris is a staunch advocate for reweaving the social fabric, believing deeply in the power of community and belonging to help individuals navigate life's most challenging moments and empowering women to find their voice. Under her leadership, Avail has served over 100,000 clients in all 50 states and more than 100 countries, providing qualified, accessible, and confidential care at no cost. Her vision has been instrumental in expanding Avail's reach and impact, ensuring that everyone facing an unintended pregnancy or processing a past abortion has access to compassionate, person-centered support.

Avail's thought leadership has recently been featured in Inside Philanthropy, alongside her writings in Comment, Valiant CEO, Medium, Authority Magazine, NonProfit Pro, and CEO World. She contributed to The City for God, honoring Tim Keller's legacy. She frequently speaks at national events, including Forum, Praxis, and THINQ Culture Summit. In 2024, she was honored as a Marquis Who's Who listee, a testament to her outstanding leadership and significant contributions to the nonprofit sector. Chris is a graduate of Brown University and serves on the President's Council for the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Chris's personal and professional journey is rooted in a commitment to empowering individuals, fostering futures of hope, and ensuring that no one has to face their future alone.

Learn more about Avail and their mission here.