Shaping Solutions in Cincinnati: A Conversation with Ashley Glass

By Tamara Thrasher, Program Manager, GreenLight Fund Cincinnati

At GreenLight Fund Cincinnati, our Selection Advisory Council (SAC) plays a vital role in identifying innovative solutions that address our community’s needs. This month, I had the privilege of sitting down with Ashley Glass, MPH, BSN, RN, founder of Black Women Cultivating Change, community advocate, and dedicated SAC member to hear about her experience on the council and her perspective on shaping change in Cincinnati.

What drew you to join GreenLight Fund Cincinnati’s Selection Advisory Council?

Ashley: I am truly honored and excited to be part of the SAC. I have long admired the council’s commitment to investing in community initiatives and have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of their efforts. What stands out to me is the way GreenLight brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds—different socioeconomic statuses, cultures, and life experiences—to create a well-rounded approach to change.

I deeply appreciate the council’s emphasis on both lived experience and professional expertise when making decisions. This inclusivity ensures that we fully understand the needs of our community and can identify solutions that best serve residents and families.

In your first year on the SAC, what have you learned about GreenLight’s approach to selecting new investments?

Ashley: I’ve learned that GreenLight takes an incredibly thorough and thoughtful approach. Their process is extensive—not only do they work to understand key priority areas in our community, but they also carefully consider the barriers that organizations might face in implementing solutions.

One thing that stands out to me is how intentional GreenLight is about ensuring selected organizations feel supported and equipped with the resources necessary to make a lasting impact. Their work isn’t just about funding—it’s about strengthening and enhancing the resources that already exist while ensuring that investments are meaningful at both the individual and community levels. GreenLight relies on input from the community, investors, and local leaders. 

Why do you think it’s important that so many voices are involved in the decision-making process?

Ashley: It’s critically important because the challenges we’re addressing are deeply complex. These issues are often systemic and structural, meaning real, lasting progress requires collaboration and innovation.

By bringing together diverse perspectives, we can co-create solutions that reflect the actual needs of the community. Change doesn’t happen in isolation—when we work together, we’re able to develop ideas that are both sustainable and impactful.

What advice would you give to others who want to help shape solutions for Cincinnati?

Ashley: As the founder of Black Women Cultivating Change, a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating the stigma around mental health in the Black community, I’ve learned that meaningful impact starts with listening and meeting people where they are.

For example, our organization recently hosted an intergenerational wellness event for Black men and boys, informed by data we collected last fall from a focus group. We’ve held men’s events before, but this time, we took a step back and asked the community what they actually wanted to see. That insight helped us build something truly meaningful and responsive to their needs.

For those who want to get involved, my advice is to start volunteering and take the time to understand the community you want to serve. The people in these neighborhoods are the real experts—they know what they need, and they’re full of creativity and ideas. By joining forces with them, advocating, and connecting people to resources, you can help drive real change.

This interview highlights the power of collaboration, community voice, and intentional investment in shaping a better Cincinnati. Thank you to Ashley for sharing her insights and for her dedication to strengthening our city!

Follow Black Women Cultivating Change on Facebook and LinkedIn to learn more about Ashley’s impactful work in Cincinnati