Rally & Resource Fair
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
1:15–3:15 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse West Lawn
1 Capitol Square
Columbus, OH 43215
Register Today
Join Children’s Defense Fund-Ohio for the 2026 National Day of Social Action (NDSA) Rally and Resource Fair.
Families, community organizations, educators, advocates, public leaders, and young people will gather for an afternoon of advocacy, community, and action centered on one important question:
Are the Children Well?
Led by CDF Freedom Schools® scholars and youth advocates, this public rally will elevate the voices of young people as they share their experiences, raise awareness about the issues affecting children and families, and call for meaningful change across Ohio.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with local organizations offering resources that support children’s well-being and strengthen communities.
Event Theme
Are the Children Well?
This year’s NDSA focuses on the many dimensions of children’s well-being, including:
- Mental health
- Physical health
- Social and emotional health
- Public health
Together, we’ll explore what children need to thrive and how communities, policymakers, and advocates can work together to create lasting change.
Community Resource Fair
You can also make a difference by bringing a new or gently used children’s book! Our CDF Freedom Schools® site at Community Development for All People-Siebert is collecting books to donate to local homeless shelters, and a collection bin will be available at the event to make it easy to drop off your donation.
Connect with organizations working every day to support children, youth, and families throughout Ohio. Community partners will be on site sharing programs, services, and resources available to attendees.
Featured Speaker
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Senator Willis E. Blackshear, Jr.
State Senator for Ohio’s 6th Senate District
Partners & Sponsors
Fiscal Sponsors
Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation
Robert Weiler Company
Community Partners
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
African American Male Wellness Agency
Center of Science and Industry (COSI)
Columbus Kids Book Bank
Health Policy Institute of Ohio
Marguerite Doughty Conrath Foundation
Ohio Association of School Nurses
Ohio School-Based Health Alliance