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Illinois Policy & Advocacy

For decades, our Illinois policy experts have been leading advocacy and systems-change efforts for early learning and care across Illinois.

Our Work

Through administrative, legislative and grassroots advocacy, we seek to inform, create and strengthen conditions that ensure inclusive access to high-quality early learning and care experiences for Illinois’ youngest children, their families and those who care for them.

Young child participating in 2019 Illinois Advocacy Day

Legislative Advocacy

Sustaining and bolstering investments in foundational early learning and care programs and strengthening the statutory language that undergrids those programs and related services.

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Administrative Advocacy

Informing design and implementation of federal, state and local programs, policies and practices.

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Grassroots Engagement

Engaging community members, early learning and care program providers and other stakeholders to ensure our priorities are aligned with the needs of children and families, as well as the greater early learning and care field.

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Grassroots Advocacy

Ensuring parents, providers and other stakeholders have the information and tools necessary to voice their support for early learning and care investments to their elected officials.

Start Early's Illinois Policy Agenda

Our three-year Illinois policy agenda represents our priorities in the state and encompasses Start Early’s advocacy, administrative policy and systems-building efforts.

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Illinois

Resources & News

Contact Us

Connect with our team to learn more about our work or discuss how we can support policy and advocacy work for your organization.

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Stay Connected

Stay up to date on early childhood policy issues and how you can take action to ensure all children have access to quality early learning and care in Illinois.

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Take Action

Raise your voice and encourage lawmakers to prioritize early learning and care at the local, state and federal level.

Make an Impact