“It is our responsibility – no matter who we are or where we are or what we do – to open our eyes and each other’s eyes to the problems we choose not to see. But being awake is not enough. We must take action for what is right. No matter how scary or hard or impossible it may seem.” – Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha (October 25, 2018)

We just wrapped up our 2018 Celebration Breakfast, and we are so grateful for the dedication of so many New Yorkers who are working with CCC to make our city, state and country a better place for every child. Not to mention our brilliant speakers and honorees: Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, Judith A. Garson, Dr. Robert Gore, Jonathan Blitzer, and Errol Louis.

I hope everyone who joined us at 583 Park left feeling inspired and motivated to continue to push for justice at every level of government. If you were not able to attend, please know that you were missed – and that, as always, we deeply appreciate your continued support of CCC.

As I said at the Breakfast, this past year has pushed all of us to become more vocal champions for social justice.

Our Celebration Breakfast highlighted what is possible when we refuse to accept the status quo for our communities. Each of our speakers and honorees witnessed an injustice they wanted to address and, after relentless dedication and sometimes in the face of intense opposition, they made change happen. It was an uplifting reminder that we must not accept the inequities around us, and that we all have an important role to play in advocating to ensure that policy, budget and legislative decisions – here in New York City, in Albany and in Washington D.C. – are right and just.

I hope you will help us to keep the conversation going and continue to remain informed and engaged partners in our efforts to lead the charge for change.

Here are just a few actions you can take:

• Speak out against two recent federal proposals that would threaten the well-being of immigrant children and families.
• Reach out to your representatives to demand equal pay for equal work in the early childhood education workforce and effective implementation of Raise the Age legislation.
• Learn more about our Community Leadership Course and how you can make a difference for New York City children. Apply in the spring for fall 2019!
• Explore data on Keeping Track Online to stay up-to-date on the well-being of children in New York City.
• Make a financial contribution to CCC that will allow us to maintain our independent, fact-based advocacy on behalf of all of New York City’s children.

Check out our photos from the event and please keep in touch throughout the year for ongoing opportunities to learn more and take action.

Once again, thank you so much for supporting CCC. It is because of you that we are able to advance programs, policies, and solutions that change the lives of New York City children and families for the better.

With gratitude,

Jennifer March
Executive Director