Government/Policy

As the nation’s only independent research and policy center focused exclusively on improving outcomes for children, Child Trends' mission is to improve outcomes for children by providing research, data, and analysis to the people and institutions whose decisions and actions affect children, including program providers, the policy community, researchers and educators, and the media.

National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) is the leading bi-partisan organization supporting state legislators and legislative staff in all 50 states, its commonwealths and territories.  NCSL provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues.  NCSL is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of state governments before Congress and federal agencies.  The leadership of NCSL is composed of legislators and staff from across the country. 

Governors across the country are creating, cross-agency coordinating bodies, called Children's Cabinets, to help meet this growing demand.  Children's Cabinets are systematically changing the fragmented ways states typically do business for children and youth by using a data-driven, results-oriented approach.

AASA is the professional organization for more than 13,000 education leaders. AASA members advance the goals of public education and champion children’s causes in their districts and nationwide. As school system leaders, AASA members set the pace for academic achievement and help shape policy, oversee implementation and represent school districts to the public at large.

The Forum for Youth Investment is a nonprofit, nonpartisan action tank dedicated to helping communities and the nation make sure all young people are ready by 21 – ready for college, work and life.