To make our vision possible and sustainable, our region needs a local, dedicated fund for children and youth. This is the north star. Since our very first gatherings in early 2019–before officially becoming the Children First Collective–we have known that our path leads to the pursuit of protected investment in our young people. After having spent hundreds of hours drafting budget recommendations, attending municipal and County meetings, and working to ensure that children, youth, and working families get their fair share of a budget that reflects our beliefs and values, we believe in a dedicated fund now more than ever.