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Advocacy-Parent Leadership Opportunities

Welcome to our Parent Advocacy and Engagement hub, where you can find everything you need to become an advocate for Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Whether you're looking to join the Parent Ambassador Program, advance through the Parent Leadership Program, or engage in the grassroots Parent Power Network, we provide resources to help you grow your advocacy skills. Additionally, explore tools and support for effective participation in Policy Councils, empowering you to take an active role in shaping Head Start and Early Head Start policies.


We offer multiple pathways for parents to get involved and make a difference for Head Start and Early Head Start families across Illinois.

 

STATEWIDE PARENT LEADERS IN ACTION COMMUNITY


Connect with other parents in Illinois, learn about Head Start/Early Head Start, and engage in statewide advocacy efforts. Monthly resources and networking opportunities will help you raise awareness and work with policymakers.

This program is perfect for parents who are just starting their advocacy journey. Your role is crucial. Through virtual networking events, you’ll connect with other parents statewide, learn about Head Start/Early Head Start history, and gain insights on engaging policymakers. Monthly resources like short video clips and updates inform you about important issues. You’ll also receive a 50% discount on conference registration for IHSA’s Annual Conference and can join a statewide Parent Committee networking session.


SIGN UP COMING SOON


How to Join: Sign up COMING SOON. Fill out a short form with your details and program information. You’ll receive monthly updates, networking opportunities, and advocacy tools upon joining.



PARENT POWER NETWORK

This grassroots initiative empowers parents to collaborate and advocate for Head Start and Early Head Start policy improvements. The Parent Power Network gives families a more robust voice by providing them with tools and resources to work together on local and statewide issues affecting Head Start programs.

PARENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM


The Parent Ambassador Program is a year-long advocacy training program for Head Start and Early Head Start parents. Ambassadors learn about government, legislation, contacting lawmakers, and organizing parent advocacy in their communities. After training, they lead grassroots efforts and provide updates on legislative issues. Ambassadors receive stipends for training and meetings, along with travel expenses. They serve as lead organizers for advocacy campaigns and work closely with a program manager for ongoing support. This role helps parents develop their advocacy skills while impacting their local programs.

Interested parents can connect with their agency's director or reach out to Parent Ambassador Program Manager, Alicia Thompson, athompson@ilheadstart.org for more information. The Illinois Head Start Association recruits approximately eight to ten parents annually for this program.


Training Includes:
  • How government works and how laws are made
  • Communicating with legislators
  • Telling your story as an advocate
  • Voter Education
  • Head Start/Early Head Start history
Benefits for Parent Ambassador:
  • Professional advocacy training
  • Mentorship and networking opportunities
  • Stipends for meetings and trainings
  • Travel expenses covered for in-person events

SEE OUR PARENT AMBASSADORS IN ACTION

 

State Capitol Visits

Content Coming Soon

2024 NHSA Winter Leadership Institute

POLICY COUNCIL RESOURCES

Resources Coming Soon...