Children's Defense Fund

Children’s Defense Fund builds community so young people grow up with dignity, hope, and joy.

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We envision a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.

About Us
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Take the Pledge for Child Well-Being

Make your voice heard! Because children and youth under 18 can't vote, they are relying on each of us to do our part and be their advocates. Pledge to vote for child well-being this November.

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Young People Lead Podcast

Young People Lead Podcast

The podcast aims to demonstrate how young people can and should lead by telling their stories of how youth are transforming policies for the better and examining research on the policies that most affect them.

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Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson speaking at a podium.

CDF Celebrates 50 Years

Children's Defense Fund's 2023 Policy Forum and Celebration of Joy at Howard University, Washington, D.C., marked our 50th and 30th Anniversaries of CDF Freedom Schools®. This event, focusing on health, early childhood development, communities, economic mobility, and civic engagement, united various community members for two days of learning, networking, and growth.

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30 Years of CDF Freedom Schools®

In 2023, CDF Freedom Schools® National Training united passionate educators, advocates, and youth leaders. This annual event equips attendees with tools, knowledge, and a shared commitment to children and youth, promoting literacy and creating positive change in communities nationwide.

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Blog

  • CDF Cares: Resource Assistance for Los Angeles Area Wildfires 

    CDF wishes safety and relief for all affected during this difficult time. We have compiled a list of resources for individuals and families navigating the aftermath of this unexpected circumstance:…

  • Character and Service

    President Carter once called justice, truth, humility, service, compassion, and love “the guiding lights of a life,” and those principles were the threads woven through the long lists of his own accomplishments.…

  • Immigration

    Vote NO on HR 29, Laken Riley Act

    Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) and Children’s Defense Fund-Texas (CDF-Texas) urges you to vote NO on HR 29, the Laken Riley Act. This is not a border security bill. HR 29 is a discriminatory, anti-immigrant bill that violates the U.S. Constitution by rolling back basic due process protections that protect those who are wrongfully arrested from losing their immigration status.…

  • Looking to the New Year

    The end of the holiday season and the start of the new year are always a time to prepare for new beginnings.…

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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.

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Young boy laughs with his friends at a CDF Freedom Schools event.

Dr. Starsky Wilson speaks into a microphone.

Subscribe to “For Our Children”

Sign up to receive the weekly column by Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson.

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For 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.

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