Support CDF’s mission in a community near you. Check out our upcoming events!
Events
We envision a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.
About Us
2026 American Youth Policy Forum, powered by CDF
Right after Election Day, join us on November 4-5 at Howard University for our annual convening of policymakers, child advocates, educators, and young people to strategize a brighter future for children, youth, and families together.
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A National Celebration of Joy 2026
We invite you to CDF's signature fundraising event celebrating the people, partnerships, and possibilities that make our work on behalf of children and young people possible.
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The National Observance of Children’s Sabbaths®
Children's Sabbaths engages multifaith places of worship across the country in focusing prayers, worship, education programs, and action on learning more about the urgent problems facing our nation's children.
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For Our Children Newsletter
Explore our monthly newsletter, "For Our Children," for insights from CDF President & CEO Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson on our mission, milestones, and ongoing work to advance justice and well-being for children and youth.
Read the latestRecent News
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Defending the Whole Child: CDF-Ohio Policy Webinar Series Launches Monday to Promote Discussion Around Child Well-Being
(Nov. 6, 2026) – The webinars are designed to give parents, students, community members, and local leaders an in-depth opportunity to discuss the critical factors shaping children’s development.…
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Children’s Defense Fund-New York, Partners to Host Town Halls in Rochester, Schenectady on Child and Family Well-Being Fund
(Nov. 6, 2026) – CDF-NY calls for $30 million state investment to support children and families across ten high-need communities.…
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MN Senator-elect Peggy Flanagan, Dr. Contessa Metcalfe, & Gospel Artist Geoffrey Golden to Attend CDF’s Celebration of Joy
(Nov. 4, 2026) – The trio will join Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) in Washington, D.C., for A National Celebration of Joy. The organization’s signature fundraising event honors the people, partnerships, and possibilities driving its work for children and youth.…
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Wednesday: Joy Reid, Child Advocates explore How Midterms Impact Young People at American Youth Policy Forum
(Nov. 3, 2026) – Children’s Defense Fund’s gala, “Doing Our First Works Over: The New State of America’s Children,” comes at a moment when harmful political decisions are undermining the growth and well-being of children across America.…
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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.
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Subscribe to “For Our Children”
Sign up to receive the monthly 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.” 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.
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