Voter-Approved Children’s FundsA voter-approved children’s fund refers to local public revenue that is dedicated to children’s services in an election by the voters. These types of funds also are calledlocal dedicated funds,Children’s Services Councils (in Florida),Children’s Services Funds (in Missouri),Strong Start (San Miguel County, CO) or Right Start (Summit County, CO),Best Starts for Kids (King County, WA),Early Childhood Millage (in Kent County, MI), orsimply children’s funds.These funds support a variety of programs and services for children and youth includingprenatal and infant health and development services;child care and early education programs;after-school and summer programs;youth mentorship, leadership, and career support;mental health, behavioral health, and wellness support; andother programs and services typically provided outside of core school-day hours.Voter-approved children’s funds do not support the general operating budget for K-12 public schools since school districts typically receive funding from other designated local, state, and federal sources. Download PDF Filed under:Infants and Toddlers, Early Childhood, Middle Childhood, Youth, Young Adults, Advocates/Intermediaries, Funders, Policymakers/Agency Leaders, Publication, Voter-Approved Children’s FundsMore Resources Video What Comes Next: Organizing for Youth Investment in the Social Media Litigation Landscape Learn about the latest developments in the current lawsuits against social media companies and how advocates can build relationships and shape youth investment priorities now. 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. 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!
Video What Comes Next: Organizing for Youth Investment in the Social Media Litigation Landscape Learn about the latest developments in the current lawsuits against social media companies and how advocates can build relationships and shape youth investment priorities now.
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.
Insights April 27, 2026 With Federal and State Funding Hanging in the Balance, Local Leaders Find New Ways to Support Children and Youth