Action for Children

Founded in 1969, Action for Children has long been dedicated to the promotion and expansion of quality child care in Illinois. Over the years, Action for Children has expanded its activities to meet the burgeoning needs of working families and to make the most of gains made in the policy arena. Starting as a small, volunteer advocacy agency, the organization was renamed in 2004 and is now multifaceted, employing a staff of more than 400. Core activities include program services for families and providers, program development and public policy and advocacy. For more information, contact Sessy Nyman at 773-687-4000.

Ounce of Prevention Fund

The Ounce of Prevention Fund is a public-private partnership that invests in the healthy development of babies, children, adolescents and families. Founded in 1982, the Ounce advocates for public policy changes that better serve all children and families; develops and operates innovative early childhood programs in some of Illinois’ most challenging communities; uses research to better understand what works in helping families; provides extensive training to early childhood professionals throughout the state; and replicates our successful models across the country. For more information, contact Nancy Shier at 312-922-3863.

Voices for Illinois Children

Voices for Illinois Children is a non-profit, non-partisan, statewide group of child advocates. Since 1987, Voices has worked with families, communities and policymakers to implement policies and programs that benefit children and their families. Through policy analysis, public education and outreach, Voices generates support from civic, business and community leaders for cost-effective and practical proposals that ensure all children grow up healthy, nurtured, safe and well educated. For more information, contact Sean Noble at 312-456-0600.