The Children’s Agenda, now in our 19th year, is stronger than ever. We have grown into one of the most trusted advocacy organizations for children in New York. We build influence by working together with our Very Invested Parents (VIP) group, Action Network of over 6,000 members, and 29 coalitions that we lead or participate in. The changes we achieve in policy, public funding and regulations improve the well-being of children, strengthen families and build equitable systems.

We continue to focus on our mission of advocating for effective policies and driving evidence-based solutions for the health, education and success of children, especially those children who are the most vulnerable due to poverty, racism, health inequities and trauma. We are driven by what works best to give kids what they need most.

In 2022, advocacy for children was especially important as children dealt with long-term effects of the pandemic.

• Children in the Rochester Central School District were out of school for 544 days before returning to full-time, in-person learning.
• In addition to the academic and social disruption in their lives, Rochester children have had to cope with a surge in community violence.
• Health, mental health and education systems are under significant strain as they work to support our community’s children.

We are pleased to share highlights of what we achieved for children in 2022