Why ACT?
The Challenge
Children from all incomes, races, and cultures are experiencing increased adversity, leading to poor health and fewer opportunities to thrive. Issues like the COVID pandemic and racism have created greater challenges in communities and have made it more challenging for youth to get their basic needs met.
NEARLY 50% OF CHILDREN HAVE EXPERIENCED AT LEAST ONE TRAUMATIC ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE (ACE). i
MORE THAN 30% OF ADOLESCENTS NEED HELP FOR EMOTIONAL OR MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS. ii
i. Bethell, CD, Davis, MB, Gombojav, N, Stumbo, S, Powers, K. Issue Brief: A national and across state profile on adverse childhood experiences among children and possibilities to heal and thrive. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, October 2017. cahmi.org/projects/adverse-childhood-experiences-aces
ii. 2019 California Health Interview Survey.
The Solution
All Children Thrive brings together community members and key decision makers to address these challenges and reimagine a future where all children have the same opportunity to reach their full potential.
The How
ACT is building upon existing efforts in cities and helping to bring together teams of people who work collaboratively to improve child well-being and who know their cities best. ACT provides cities with funding, technical assistance, training and networking opportunities to co-design solutions.
