Kids Forward is a statewide antiracist policy center that inspires action and advocates for children and families of color and those furthest from opportunity in Wisconsin. We envision a Wisconsin where every child thrives.

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Now Hiring: Grant Writing Consultant
Now Hiring: Grant Writing Consultant

Kids Forward and heathTIDE are looking to contract with part-time Grant Writing Consultants to
help us strategize and write strong grant applications from Wisconsin organizations for the
Spark and Innovation Collaborative Awards of the Lake Michigan School Food System
Innovation Hub.

Explained: End Juvenile Life Without Parole in Wisconsin
Explained: End Juvenile Life Without Parole in Wisconsin

Wisconsin relies far too much on incarceration and blames children for system-wide failures. Instead of incarceration, a better investment for Wisconsin’s youth is in basic needs such as health, housing, and employment.  Wisconsin should reimagine a community-based continuum of care grounded in youth voice, emerging adult research, and cross-system collaboration. 

Fueling Our Kids

Grants Available for Innovations in Wisconsin’s School Food Systems

Farmers, food suppliers, food service directors and community-based program leaders are invited to join us in helping create more local and nourishing meals in our schools. Grants up to $250,000 are available — especially in areas that don’t have equitable access to resources. 

Deadline to Apply: April 30, 2024

Race to Equity 10-Year Report: Dane County

Year after year Dane County has been named by several sources as one of the best places to live in the country. It is often touted as a resource-rich area where families and young professionals can thrive. But, Dane County is not an island. It is a product of the state of Wisconsin, which has been described as one of the worst states to live for Black people. While many Black families are thriving in Dane County, it is not an oasis for many of its Black residents, especially those making low and moderate incomes.

The Race to Equity 10-Year Report unpacks how race, class, and, in some cases, gender impact Black Dane County residents.

Stories

“They Call Me Nana”

“They Call Me Nana”

Ruby Grisby, Milwaukee (WI) My name is Ruby Grisby. I started out as a daycare worker and have now been an owner for 47 years. My husband and I opened our first daycare center in 1993. Most of the children we care for at Grisby’s Child Development Center live within...

“Child Care Makes Our Communities Stronger”

“Child Care Makes Our Communities Stronger”

Elizabeth Tomev, Wisconsin Before I had children, the importance of daycare didn’t weigh heavily on my mind. I didn’t realize how stressful it would be to try to find the right child care. I never knew how costly it would be. My children are eight and five. Child care...

It Takes a Village

It Takes a Village

Kris Marcum, Cottage Grove (WI) My husband and I are a two parent household, both working full-time outside the home. We have two boys, one is five, and one is two. They are the best of friends and share a love for playing with super fast race cars and monster trucks,...

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