Funding the Next Generation began six months ago with a question: Is there interest in communities throughout California in developing local dedicated public funding streams for children, youth and families?  On September 27, the answer was apparent - a resounding and inspiring YES!  Over 200 participants representing 31 counties and 11 statewide organizations, and a "faculty" of 16 experts convened at the Waterfront Hotel in Oakland to attend what we believe was the first-ever conference on how child advocates and local elected officials can promote this type of funding.   

 

Pollster Dave Metz shared data showing that on almost every issue he has worked on (from parks, to environment, to building a new court house), the public's support for children is the most powerful argument in favor.  He said, "the path to success is showing how a measure will benefit children." He told the audience that voters rank helping kids as an "urgent priority," and that voters don't believe that we are doing enough.  He urged the audience to seize the opportunity.  "In our hyper-partisan time, kids are one issue that is non-partisan."  See Dave's amazing power point.

LAUSD Board Member Bennett Kayser and  Kathleen Manis from the Advancement Project left the conference committed to new funding streams for art and after-school in LA.

Larry Tramutola, one of the country's most successful political consultants, captivated the audience with stories of successful campaigns, pointing out that sometimes it takes many tries to win, and helping people understand the importance of on-the-ground organizing.  Tramutola believes that the public is much more likely to support local measures than state and federal measures, because voters want to see the concrete results of their investments close to home.  He believes that the local level is where you can build trust - even with those skeptical about government services. His candor was deeply appreciated by the audience - including his surprising belief that social media is not effective when it comes to getting public support. One of Tramutola's messages: Don't let naysayers distract you from your game. Focus on getting your supporters involved.

The teams from each community represented a diverse combination of leaders from from the public and non-profit sector, as well as elected officials and foundation staff. And hats off to the First 5 folks who were there from 21 different counties - AMAZING!  Thank you to Moira Kenney, the Executive Director of the First 5 Association of California, who understands the power of working at the local level, and sees the responsibility of First 5 as lifting up all children and families.

WE WANT TO HELP - If you would like more information and help considering options for your community, please feel free to call.  

 

phone: 415-794-4963