History

RIBN was founded by Erin Barrette Goodman in the spring of 2005 in response to the growing demand in RI for evidence-based information about pregnancy, birth, and new parenting.

A trained birth doula, prenatal yoga teacher, writer, and mother, Goodman understood first-hand the importance of informed decision-making. She gathered together a group of concerned professionals, parents, and educators to form what would evolve to become the premier statewide resource for new and expanding RI families.

In the spring of 2009, in order to focus on her career and her family's needs, Goodman stepped down as president of RIBN. She is now involved with RIBN in an advisory role, while Allison Spooner, a former Hypnobirthing® Instructor, passionate birth advocate, mother and former marketing chair for RIBN, is heading the organization.