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Policy Advocacy

First 5 Contra Costa focuses on systems change to achieve lasting social change.

First 5 Contra Costa works to advance local, state and federal policies that foster more integrated systems that proactively support the wellbeing of young children and their families. We aim to increase equity using a Targeted Universalism approach, where we set bold goals to improve outcomes for all children and families, while focusing on targeted strategies to improve opportunities and outcomes for those most impacted by racial inequity.

Below are our three overarching policy priorities:

  • Expand access to affordable, quality early childhood education with a stable and prepared workforce.
  • Improve systems to promote the healthy development of young children and their families, with a focus on mental health, trauma-informed approaches, and developmental concerns.
  • Strengthen families’ well-being and resiliency to support the optimal development of their children.

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Policy Partners & Coalitions

It takes a village. First 5 Contra Costa partners with many public and private organizations, community leaders, and families in its systems change efforts. Sometimes we convene groups, while in other instances we are active members of coalitions. Together, we are stronger. 

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Regional Groups

The Regional Groups program was a parent leadership, power building, and advocacy training program operated by First 5 Contra Costa. For more than 20 years, we supported three Regional Groups to develop leaders that aim to advocate for and influence public systems impacting young children and their communities.