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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Young people with their fists in the air.

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

  • Education

    Giving the Gift of Books

    As parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles, and adults everywhere are busy choosing holiday gifts for the children they love, books should always be at the top of the list.…

  • American Youth Policy Forum – Moving Forward

    The impact of the 2024 election may shape our nation for generations. That is why I am pleased Children’s Defense Fund was positioned to host the American Youth Policy Forum in Washington, D.C., on November 8th.…

  • A Litany of Thanksgiving

    On this Thanksgiving, I share once again the beautiful prayer of great Black theologian Howard Thurman, A Litany of Thanksgiving. For many years I always made Thanksgiving dinner for our whole family and for friends away from their homes. …

  • Saying Grace

    During the Thanksgiving season I often share the description of an editorial cartoon my father kept pinned up in the vestibule of our church that made a deep childhood impression on me I have never forgotten.…

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

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.

Find a Site
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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