Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn is hosting a series of community meetings to gather input on the “Youth and Families Initiative“, which will guide the City of Seattle’s support for children, youth and families, and inform efforts to renew the Families and Education Levy in Fall 2011.

So far, most of the conversation at the meetings has been focused on school-age youth, with less heard from voices carrying the message that early childhood is a critical time to focus on if the goal is the healthy functioning of youth and families. It’s essential that early learning has a strong presence at these community meetings and has delegates nominated to the Kids and Families Congress.

How will Delegates be nominated?

• People attending the community meeting will break out into groups of 10 and one person will be nominated from each group to the Kids and Families Congress. Approximately, 12 delegates will come out of each community meeting.
• People not able to participate in the community meetings can register to host a Community Caucus (from March-May 1, 2010). Only 1 delegate will come out of each caucus.

What is the role of the Delegate?

• Delegates, city staff, experts, and legislators will develop action plans for priority issues that emerge from the Kids and Families Congress.
• Action plans will include priorities for City of Seattle spending and the Families and Education Levy.
• Action plans will outline and strengthen partnerships among the City, Seattle Public Schools, CBOs, foundations, businesses, and elected officials at all levels.

  The Call to Action 

We ask for your involvement in shaping how City spending and the Families and Education Levy will look by:

• Attend the community meeting (date & location below)
• Nominating a Delegate who will be a voice for Early Learning
• Spread the word and encourage your community to get involved in this process

 Next community meeting Date & Location

• March 22 – Garfield Community Center 7-8:30 p.m. 

In addition, you and your community (parents and caregivers) can also get involved by voting online on issues that are important to you by visiting Ideas for Seattle.