Meet us at Alex Haley Farm for Hall-Proctor Institute for Child Advocacy Ministry
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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.
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The State of America’s Children®
As the president of the United States prepares for this year’s State of the Union address, Children’s Defense Fund President and CEO Reverend Dr. Starsky Wilson has a message about the state of America’s children.
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Use Your Voice!
The BSLN Fellowship and Ambassador Program offers an enriching opportunity for college students to actively organize in the community and influence public policy. Apply today or share with an eligible college student!
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CDF Haley Farm
Named for author and activist Alex Haley, CDF Haley Farm in Clinton, TN, is a sacred and safe space for facilitating movement-building moments and training opportunities for prioritizing joy, pursuing justice, and promoting rest as resistance. Explore the rich history of Haley Farm and consider hosting your next event there!
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Immigration
CDF-TX Resources for Immigrants & Allies
June 16, 2026 — Children’s Defense Fund-Texas provides a comprehensive immigrant safety and preparedness guide for individuals, families, allies, educators, and service providers. It brings together practical tools and legal resources to help people navigate immigration enforcement, detention, and deportation risks.…
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1,300+ Youth Advocates to Convene in TN for CDF’s National Child Policy Training Institute
May 29, 2026 – The National Child Policy Training Institute trains young leaders to teach almost 12,000 scholars at over 180 CDF Freedom Schools sites nationwide. A key focus for this summer’s program is supporting youth mental health.…
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Celebration of Joy: CDF-Southern Regional Office to Honor AL Leaders, Uplift Youth Advocates
May 27, 2026 – CDF-Southern Regional Office’s ‘A Celebration of Joy’ will recognize four Alabama women for their contributions to advancing the well-being of young people in the Huntsville area and across the state. …
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Youth, Immigration Advocates to Gather at TX State Capitol for ‘Free Families Vigil’
May 19, 2026 – The event takes place during the National Day of Action to Free Families, which will feature several similar events happening across the country protesting the practice of family detention across the United States.…
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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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Subscribe to “For Our Children”
Sign up to receive the monthly column by Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson.
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CDF’s President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, shares insights, challenges, and hopes for the future 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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