State Strategies for Sustained Investment in Kids: A Landscape of Dedicated FundingStates across the country are increasingly using specific sources of revenue, separate from their general budgets, to provide stable, long-term funding for programs and services for children and youth outside of the K-12 school day. These funds are dedicated through actions by state legislatures or through ballot measures approved by voters. Understanding how states have successfully created dedicated funding streams for kids is critical for informing and inspiring similar efforts elsewhere. Dedicated funding for children and youth comes from a variety of sources of state revenue. By highlighting the range of approaches—along with the advocacy, coalition building, and planning that made them possible—this report serves as a practical tool for advancing more sustainable and equitable systems of support for children and youth nationwide.Download the paper to learn more. Then watch the webinar recording to hear directly from the advocates who successfully created dedicated funds for children and youth in their states. Download PDF Filed under:Infants and Toddlers, Early Childhood, Middle Childhood, Youth, Young Adults, Advocates/Intermediaries, Policymakers/Agency Leaders, Publication, Sourcing Additional Funding, Strategic Public Financing, Voter-Approved Children’s FundsMore Resources Publication Voter-Approved Children’s Fund Profile: Portland, OR The Portland Children’s Levy was created to invest in proven, cost-effective strategies that strengthen children’s well-being and long-term success. Publication Voter-Approved Children’s Fund Profile: Alachua County, FL The Children’s Trust of Alachua County funds a coordinated system of community services designed to help children and youth from birth to age 18 and their families thrive. Updates and Events Insights May 12, 2026 Five Ways to Put Your Fiscal Map into Action Insights April 27, 2026 With Federal and State Funding Hanging in the Balance, Local Leaders Find New Ways to Support Children and Youth News March 26, 2026 In a Tough Fiscal Moment, States Look to Raise Revenue and Kids Have a Stake Close Share it! Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Click to copy URL Link Copied!
Publication Voter-Approved Children’s Fund Profile: Portland, OR The Portland Children’s Levy was created to invest in proven, cost-effective strategies that strengthen children’s well-being and long-term success.
Publication Voter-Approved Children’s Fund Profile: Alachua County, FL The Children’s Trust of Alachua County funds a coordinated system of community services designed to help children and youth from birth to age 18 and their families thrive.
Insights April 27, 2026 With Federal and State Funding Hanging in the Balance, Local Leaders Find New Ways to Support Children and Youth