Bernice Weissbourd was a pioneering American social activist and a leading advocate for early childhood development. She founded the non-profit organization Family Focus in 1976, which provided community-based support for parents and young children. Her work was instrumental in promoting the concept that the earliest years of life are critical for a person's future well-being and success. Weissbourd's innovative approach to family support has influenced public policy and continues to shape early childhood education programs across the nation.