National Head Start Association Dollar Per Child Campaign
This campaign funds the Government Affairs Division (GAD) of the National Head Start Association (NHSA). NHSA is the only national organization dedicated exclusively to promoting and protecting Head Start (a comprehensive pre-school program that helps more than 865,000 low-income children and their families). GAD works directly with Congress and the Administration to maintain the voice Head Start children, families, and staff must have to continue to provide and receive quality program services.
Because of the legislative activities, the Government Affairs Division must be supported entirely by non-federal funds. No individual or agency dues are used for legislative activities. Because of these restrictions, we must rely directly on the support of the Head Start community to continue our efforts.
How Does the Campaign Work?
The goal is to raise at least $1.00 for every child enrolled in Head Start. Local programs and state and regional associations have raised money through sports events such as walk-a-thons and bowling contests; special events; sales of promotional items such as buttons, stickers, and pins; and many other creative methods. No contribution is too small!
How is Campaign Money Used?
To help achieve milestones such as:
- Laws that sustain our program, for example the Head Start Improvement Act of 1992, and the 1994 and 1998 Head Start Reauthorizaion Acts.
- A $313 million increase in fiscal 1999.
- A $607 million increase in fiscal year 2000.
- Efforts to keep Head Start from being denied to legal immigrants or becoming part of a block grant to states.
How Much does the Advocacy Work Cost?
The annual budget for the Government Affairs Division is approximately $450,000. This amount pays for staff salaries, legal support, lobbying fees, research, printed materials/reports, travel, and other office expenses.
How Can I Find Out More?
For more information on the Dollar Per Child Campaign, the Government Affairs Division or NHSA’s Policy Agenda, contact the Division at 703/739-7559.
Send $1 Child Checks to:
Illinois Head Start Association
3435 Liberty Drive, Suite D
Springfield, IL 62704
