Erica Harmelech has worked with children of all ages throughout her nearly 20-year professional career, including spending more than a decade as a Child Life Specialist at Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital (YNHCH). During her time at YNHCH, she provided child life services to children and families in the pediatric infusion room, pediatric hematology/oncology clinic, and the pre-anesthesia visit clinic. She also represented the child life services team on numerous cross-functional committees, including the Palliative Care Team and the Pain Committee.

During her non-clinic time, she acted as a hospital liaison for many non-profits including The Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer, Circle of Care, and Splashes of Hope. Erica also spent time as a volunteer for The Cove for Grieving Children, and the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. Erica is the winner of the 2009 CureChief Hero Award, and the Cove Kids Award.

Erica received her certification as a Child Life Specialist after attending the University of Delaware, where she earned a B.S. in Family and Community Services with a focus in Delivery to Hospitalized Children, and a minor in Disabilities Studies. She completed her internships at Tomorrow Children’s Institute for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology and Nurses N’ Kids PPEC.

Erica grew up in Vernon, CT, and now lives in Rockville, MD with her husband, two amazing young children and one very fluffy dog. Erica’s interests include running, reading, and cheering for the New England Patriots, USA soccer, and USA track and field. Erica also enjoys being an active member in her synagogue and volunteering at her children’s schools. Erica is excited to be part of Kindness Grows Here and to help make this world a little kinder each and every day.