Children’s Defense Fund builds community so young people grow up with dignity, hope, and joy.
Donate
We envision a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.
About Us
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.
Learn More
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.
Learn More
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.
Learn More
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.
Learn MoreBlog
-
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.…
-
Children’s Defense Fund Statement in Response to the Nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
CDF is not, nor has it ever been, associated with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., or Children’s Health Defense, the organization he created.…
-
Honoring General Tubman
On Veterans Day, November 11, the state of Maryland posthumously named Harriet Tubman a one-star brigadier general in Maryland’s National Guard.…
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
Subscribe to “For Our Children”
Sign up to receive the weekly column by Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson.
SubscribeFor 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.
Read the Latest