Dear Friends and Supporters,
I am thrilled to announce the launch of the Children’s Equity Fund (CEF), a 501(c)(4) dedicated to combatting racial and economic inequities in the U.S. to ensure that all children have access to the resources and supports they need to thrive from their earliest years. We’re dedicated to a future where public policies truly support the foundational needs of young children and their families, fostering environments that promote healthy development and long-term success.
Mission and Vision
The mission of CEF is clear: We champion comprehensive policy changes at the federal, state, and local levels to create lasting systems change that improves the well-being of children and families. Our vision is a society where all children and families thrive.
CEF and BFF: A Unified Purpose Through Diverse Approaches
The Children’s Equity Fund’s work complements and enhances the work of its sister organization, the Bainum Family Foundation (BFF), using different resources and expertise to achieve aligned goals. While BFF continues its impactful work focusing on direct services, advocacy, and awareness, CEF will advance its mission by engaging in and supporting lobbying and political activity to effect systems change.
Advocacy and Policy Engagement
Our work at CEF has already begun. Our commitment to community leads with a focus on what is closest to home: state and local policy. At a state level, the recent wins we contributed to in securing early childhood funding in Virginia and Vermont demonstrate the power of lobbying and political activity. Locally, in DC, we’ve collaborated with coalition partners, becoming a signatory on a letter to Mayor Bowser opposing the proposed cuts to the Pay Equity Fund—a critical resource for ensuring fair compensation for early childhood educators in our city—and participating in related rallies. At a national level, our work with the Impact Fellows Action Fund is helping support state advocates and grassroots organizations turn policy advocacy into political action for young children and their families. Through initiatives like these, CEF is dedicated to fostering policy changes that prioritize the needs of children and families at the local, state, and federal level.
Join Us on This Journey
As we embark on this path, we recognize that the challenges ahead require collective action and sustained commitment. We urge other organizations, advocates, and individuals to join us. By aligning our efforts, increasing investments in lobbying and political activity, and amplifying our voices, we can work together to ensure all young children and their families thrive.
Stay connected with CEF’s ongoing efforts and successes through our LinkedIn, where we share updates, insights, and ways to get involved. I also encourage you to learn more about us and our partners on our website.
Thank you for your support and belief in our mission. We look forward to making a profound impact together.
David Daniels,
CEO and President