Speaking Up and Advocating for Genesee County and Michigan’s Youngest Children
As a parent or an early childhood professional you are in a unique and powerful position in influencing the lives of children and families. You are also in a unique and powerful position in understanding the issues that affect many families and children. You see the day-to-day struggles that families face, the barriers that keep children from succeeding to their full potential, and the missteps of policy creation that hold families back. You are an expert on these issues. Your thoughts, experiences and ideas are valuable, and your voice needs to be heard.
Advocacy Organizations and Resources
The Genesee County Great Start Collaborative works with other local, state, and national child advocacy organizations, including those listed below:
Early educators and families make a big difference every day and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is there to support them. The NAEYC amplifies their voices, advocates for what’s best for children, and offers valuable resources, from professional development and events to online communities and publications. The Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children (MIAEYC) is the Michigan NAEYC chapter.
Michigan’s Children
Michigan’s Children is a statewide independent voice working to ensure that public policies are made in the best interest of children from cradle to career.
Early Childhood Investment Corporation
The Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC) believes every child in Michigan deserves the chance to thrive. That’s why they work with partners across the state to speak up for young children and their families, making sure lawmakers and leaders hear their needs. ECIC focuses on policies that support babies, toddlers, and their caregivers, including through the Think Babies Michigan initiative.
Voices for Children
Voices for Children serves as a voice and an advocate for children throughout Genesee and Shiawassee Counties. Voices for Children Advocacy Center serves (1) child victims of abuse and neglect and their families (including human trafficking), (2) with prevention for children in Genesee and Shiawassee Counties, and (3) advocacy for the well-being of the child.
Michigan League for Public Policy
The Michigan League for Public Policy works to make Michigan a place where all families can thrive. They use facts and research to help leaders understand the challenges many people face, especially those unfairly affected by historical systems. Their goal is to create policies that give everyone, no matter their background, a fair chance of success.
Find your Legislators and County Board of Commissioners
Genesee County Board of Commissioners
Michigan Legislature
Michigan House of Representatives - Find Your Representative
Michigan Senators
U.S. House of Representatives - Find Your Representative