First 5 California

Earlier this month, Executive Director?Jacqueline Wong and our External and Governmental Affairs team took action in Washington, D.C., advocating for policies that support California’s youngest learners and their families. Our team engaged with key Congressional leaders to reinforce First 5 California’s mission—emphasizing the critical need for early childhood education, family resources, and strong federal support. We also participated in the 2025 Federal Early Childhood Policy Briefing, where discussions centered on funding, workforce support, and the evolving landscape of child development policy. A huge thank you to all the advocates from California who were there to champion the needs of children and families. Your dedication drives meaningful change! #First5California #EarlyChildhoodEducation #Advocacy #FederalPolicy

We are grateful to everyone who attended the Champions for Children Awards 2025, where we had the honor of recognizing outstanding leaders and advocates dedicated to improving the lives of California’s youngest children and their families. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible awardees: Senator Nancy Skinner Assemblymember Corey Jackson, DSW, MSW Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry Mayor Kevin McCarty Assemblymember Mike Gipson First 5 LA Your commitment to shaping policies and programs that support early childhood development is truly inspiring! We also want to thank everyone who attended, from policymakers to community leaders, for engaging in meaningful conversations about the future of early childhood advocacy. #ChampionsForChildren #EarlyChildhood #Advocacy #First5California

For five years, the Vallejo First 5 Center has been a trusted resource for Solano County families, fostering healthy child development and strengthening the community. As they celebrate this milestone, we, and leaders from First 5 Solano and Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation , reflect on the Center’s impact, its growth, and the difference it makes in the lives of local children. Here’s what they had to say. #YochaDeheWintunNation #First5Vallejo #First5Solano #First5California #CommunitySupport #HealthyFamilies #EarlyChildhoodDevelopment

Join?All Children Thrive - California this April 2-3 at their 2025 ACT Conference: Community Strategies to Help All Children Thrive. The event will serve as a powerful space to share resources, strengthen collective action, and build solidarity for the challenging years ahead. As part of Public Health Advocates’ 25th Anniversary, they’ll also be honoring some of California’s most remarkable and inspiring leaders in health and justice, celebrating their contributions and reinforcing their shared commitment to a healthier and more just future. Learn more and register:?https://lnkd.in/d36TFG_U

First 5 California Job Posting: Chief Counsel (JC-461645) Are you ready for a challenge? Are you looking for a rewarding career where you impact the lives of young children? Here’s your chance! F5CA is recruiting for an energetic, committed, and experienced candidate. Apply: https://lnkd.in/gvnZAgCK

Exciting news! Our three 2025 National Home Visiting Summit Plenary Sessions will be streamed live from the conference on Feb. 13 and Feb. 14. Tune in live or view on demand to hear groundbreaking discussions and expert insights from leading voices in the home visiting and early childhood systems of care.?Won't be able to join us live? Watch on demand! Livestream registrants will have access to plenary session recordings for 5-months after the conference. In addition, livestream registrants will have access to:? ? Over 25+ poster presentations? ? Virtual exhibitor booths? ? Virtual networking opportunities?? - all via the conference website. Learn more about the 2025 Summit Plenary Sessions and register for the livestream today: https://bit.ly/3ZEsMeF

Count Play Explore (CPE) is seeking applications from individuals interested in serving on the Count Play Explore Advisory Committee (CPEAC). CPEAC supports and advises CPE which is led by the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. For more information, please visit https://lnkd.in/gmczs7T7. Apply at https://lnkd.in/g9F9jQAB by Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

This year, Executive Director Wong and Deputy Director of External and Governmental Affairs, Jorge De La Cruz, presented at the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) Annual Meeting?in Pasadena, sharing the impactful work being done at First 5 California?to benefit the youngest residents of our state. From our Raise CA Strong?campaign to addressing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), the importance of fatherhood, and expanding access to childcare and preschool, we shared how these efforts are creating positive change for children and families across the state. It was inspiring to engage with leaders from across the state, exchange ideas, and strengthen partnerships that amplify our collective impact. Together, we’re fostering a brighter future for all California children.