Join us for the American Youth Policy Forum, Powered by CDF.
Learn More
We envision a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.
About Us
Join us for A National Celebration of Joy.
Following day one of the American Youth Policy Forum, powered by Children’s Defense Fund, changemakers, advocates, and community leaders will gather to celebrate the movement for child well-being and honor the contributions of national leaders working to ensure dignity, hope, and joy for young people across America.
Learn More
National Observance of Children's Sabbaths® October 17-19, 2025
Join places of worship, faith-based organizations, and child advocates across the country for the 2025 National Observance of Children's Sabbaths®, an annual celebration that brings together people of every faith to raise a moral voice for justice and hope for children.
Learn More
We Owe them Peace of Mind
I spent most of the month of May on the road. From community celebrations with our state office and civil rights partners in New York, to stops on the State of the People Tour in Newark, Detroit, and Richmond, to keynotes and commencement addresses in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Baltimore.
Read More
Policy Brief: Expanded Child Tax Credit as a Key Anti-Poverty & Child Welfare Prevention Strategy
Children’s Defense Fund and Chapin Hall are collaborating to advance evidence-based strategies that strengthen child and family well-being. This brief focuses on the promise of making permanent the pandemic-era expanded Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Read More
CDF Haley Farm
Named for author and activist Alex Haley, CDF Haley Farm in Clinton, TN, is a sacred and safe space for facilitating movement-building moments and training opportunities for prioritizing joy, pursuing justice, and promoting rest as resistance. Explore the rich history of Haley Farm and consider hosting your next event there!
Learn MoreRecent News
-
Education
Prioritizing DEI in Ohio Public Schools
In this brief, we examine the most recent studies concerning the benefits of diversity initiatives in public education spaces and answer those questions, outlining the negative impact that would result from ending DEI in Ohio’s public schools.…
-
Education
Advocate for Immigrant Students’ Access to Higher Education in Texas
During the recent Texas legislative session, some lawmakers proposed legislation that would have limited the provisions of the Texas Dream Act so that Texas high school graduates who are undocumented could no longer qualify for in-state tuition. …
-
Service Announcements
Children’s Defense Fund–CA to Host Child Watch 2025
Child Watch 2025 will bring together youth leaders, advocates, and policy experts to explore bold solutions for California’s foster care system.…
-
Service Announcements
“A Celebration of Joy”: CDF-Ohio to Honor State Leaders, Uplift Youth Advocates
This year’s ‘A Celebration of Joy’ will reflect CDF-Ohio’s commitment to improving the economic & health outcomes of all young people in Ohio, while celebrating the power of public education as a public good essential to building a free and fair society for all.…
Enroll Your Scholar
Find a CDF Freedom Schools® Site
At CDF Freedom Schools, we’re not just educating. We’re nurturing lifelong learners and advocates for progress. We’re sculpting a brighter tomorrow where we celebrate every young person’s potential, and affirming their impact on the world is profound. Find a CDF Freedom Schools site near you.
Find a Site
Subscribe to “For Our Children”
Sign up to receive the weekly column by Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson.
SubscribeFor Our Children
CDF’s President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, shares insights, challenges, and hopes for the future in “For Our Children.”CDF’s President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, offers a personal perspective on challenges, victories, and the path ahead in “For Our Children.” Delve into a unique narrative that guides our mission, celebrates milestones, and navigates the journey toward a brighter tomorrow. Explore now for an inside connection to our vision—where the story of our commitment to children and youth unfolds.
Read the Latest