Mrs. Gail Avent
A Lifetime of Service, Leadership, and Advocacy
Mrs. Gail Avent is the Founder and Executive Director of Total Family Care Coalition (TFCC), a family-centered nonprofit organization based in Southeast Washington, DC. Her passion for serving individuals and families has been the driving force behind TFCC’s mission to strengthen communities through peer support, mental health advocacy, education, and family engagement.
What began as a grassroots peer-to-peer program providing in-home support services for families and youth has grown into a respected, consumer-operated Peer Center dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and build healthier, more independent lives.
A Community Leader
Mrs. Avent has devoted her career to improving systems of care for children, youth, adults, and families throughout the District of Columbia.
She has served as:
A Community Leader with the Early Childhood Innovation Network (ECIN) at Children’s National Hospital.
A leader in developing Parent Councils that strengthen family voices within the community.
A trainer and curriculum developer for District of Columbia Department of Health initiatives.
The District’s Lead Family Contact, helping advocate for families through the implementation of the System of Care (SOC) with the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).
Chair of the DBH Peer Certification Committee, helping develop certified family and youth peer support training throughout Washington, DC.
National Recognition
Mrs. Avent is the recipient of a Statewide Family Network Grant funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), recognizing her continued dedication to expanding behavioral health services and strengthening family support systems.
Education & Professional Background
Mrs. Avent’s commitment to excellence is reflected in her outstanding educational achievements:
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
American University
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Antioch School of Law
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Strayer University
Graduate of the Georgetown University Leadership Academy
Faculty Member, Georgetown University School of Continuing Education, Family Leadership Certificate Program
Her Mission
Mrs. Avent believes lasting change begins by meeting people where they are—with compassion, dignity, and respect.
Through Total Family Care Coalition, she remains committed to empowering individuals, strengthening families, expanding access to behavioral health services, and building healthier communities through education, advocacy, peer support, and community partnerships.
Her vision continues to guide TFCC’s work every day: creating opportunities for healing, hope, and lasting positive change throughout Washington, DC.
A Message from Mrs. Gail Avent
“Every individual deserves to be heard, supported, and empowered. At Total Family Care Coalition, we believe that by strengthening one person, one family, and one neighborhood at a time, we can create healthier and more resilient communities for generations to come.”