Although February is ending, we encourage you to continue celebrating Black history and heritage year-round! In case you missed it, here are some activities, events, and stories we shared to help you engage your family in learning about Black history: https://t.co/ScUIhvsZOR

Dive deeper into Black history with five Black leaders: Carter G. Woodson, Rita Pierson, Victorine Q. Adams, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Vivian G. Harsh. Read about their lives and contributions as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Black History Month: https://t.co/nH0nr5EK8x

Calling all advocates! Let’s make our voices heard for Illinois’ youngest learners! Join us in Springfield on Wednesday, May 13 for Early Childhood Advocacy Day and shape the future of early childhood education and care. Learn more and register today: https://t.co/k6cI762T0P

Join Parent University Chicago-West for a day of fun you and your children do not want to miss. Let us know you’ll be there and register today: https://t.co/KGN5V1kb2m

Applications for the Maria Whelan Leadership Institute Early Childhood Emerging Leaders Fellowship open today. This fellowship supports mid-career early childhood professionals in strengthening their leadership and advocacy skills. Learn more and apply: https://t.co/PbaFocLGUH

Celebrate Black history with your children with these events and activities designed for all ages! In honor of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, we've compiled fun and free ways to explore Black heritage and culture this month and beyond: https://t.co/dZndAZVZxS

Illinois Action for Children is encouraged by the state’s continued commitment to expanding and strengthening early education and care. See what investments were proposed in Governor Pritzker's FY27 budget and what that means for Illinois: https://t.co/dClk09LkVV

The Maria Whelan Leadership Institute (MWLI) Early Childhood Emerging Leaders Fellowship equips mid-career early childhood professionals with the tools, mentorship, and resources you need to lead with purpose and innovation. Applications open February 20:

Our new strategic plan outlines a bold vision and a roadmap to achieve it. We will strengthen early childhood systems, support children and families across Illinois, and deepen our statewide impact. Let’s light the way forward—together. Explore the plan: https://t.co/59rF3gpmEb

Last Friday, February 6, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the federal child care funding freeze announced in January. This is a big win for our state and those who rely on essential child care services. Read more: https://t.co/AubX9xH3rY

“You must give your own story to the world.” – Carter G. Woodson This year marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month. Stay tuned as we share events, resources and more that you can share with your family. Learn more about its beginnings: https://t.co/pp6cO46T48

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Parent University Chicago–West (PUCW) held its second graduation ceremony, honoring parents committed to their personal growth and the development of their children. See the photos and learn about the PUCW program: https://t.co/I8oPN5rZcZ

On January 18, we brought together providers for a conversation with Senator Duckworth to share their stories about how important federal child care funding is for Illinois. Stay involved in advocacy efforts by subscribing to our newsletter: https://t.co/j9MlZa0fsR

Registration is OPEN for Early Childhood Advocacy Day! Join advocates from across Illinois to champion increased funding, gain insight into key legislative and budget decisions and ensure lawmakers prioritize young learners. Learn more and register: https://t.co/k6cI762T0P

The words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. resonate and inspire us to this day as the work towards equity and justice continues. We encourage everyone to reflect on his legacy, support service projects, and engage in meaningful action in his honor. Let’s light the way forward!

As the state’s largest Child Care Resource and Referral agency and an administrator of the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), we spoke with several media outlets last week to stand up for continuous child care funding without disruption. Read more:

This morning, Senator Dick Durbin hosted a press conference to oppose the federal government's funding freeze and express his commitment to restoring funds that working families rely on. Thank you to all who stand with us to support Illinoisans and the early childhood community.

We believe all children and families have the right to safe, affordable, and quality child care provided with strong accountability. IAFC opposes the federal administration’s action to freeze federal funds that support more than 150,000 Illinois children: https://t.co/IWGWIWmqWR

Thank you to our friends who made a gift this season. Your giving spirit will help us light the way forward this year. We look forward to sharing more stories about what your generosity has made possible. Happy New Year! We wish you a peaceful and prosperous 2026. #IAFCCares

Because of our supporters, we were able to have some amazing moments of impact this past year and together, we can do even more for children, families, and communities in 2026. Give before midnight to help get 2026 off to a bright start: https://t.co/rCLbie0fFf #IAFCCares