Step Forward

We’re excited to share that in March, Ashley Miles, Chair of Step Forward's Head Start Policy Council, was sworn into Step Forward’s Board of Directors! Her dedication to supporting programs like Head Start makes her a valuable addition to our board. Welcome, Ashley!

Thank You for Taking Action! We’re so grateful to our staff, community partners, and neighbors who spoke up for Head Start last week! Thanks to your advocacy, Congress passed a continuing resolution, securing funding through September 30, 2025, and preventing a government shutdown. While we are relieved that funding remains in place, level funding still represents a cut to Head Start programs nationwide, making it harder for local programs to provide the early education and family support children need to thrive. Sustainable investment ensures Head Start can continue its mission and support families. ➡️ Stay engaged! Your voice makes a difference. Let’s continue advocating for Head Start and the families we serve! You can read National Head Start Association's statement on the house-passed government spending bill here: https://bit.ly/4c2DaRX #HeadStartWorks #HeadStartAdvantage #SupportHeadStart

Head Start gives children the foundation they need to succeed—benefits that extend for generations. Research shows that children who attend Head Start are more likely to graduate high school and attend college. As adults, they are 12% less likely to live in poverty and 29% less likely to rely on public assistance, helping to build stronger, more self-sufficient communities. 📢 ️But Head Start’s funding expires today. Without a full budget, a government shutdown could disrupt services for thousands of families. Tell your representatives why funding Head Start is essential for our communities: https://bit.ly/4ifIkvS #HeadStartWorks #HeadStartAdvantage #SupportHeadStart

We’re excited to partner with The City Club of Cleveland for their upcoming forum, We All Thrive When Greater Cleveland Works! This important conversation led by Greater Cleveland Works CEO Michelle Rose will highlight the efforts of Greater Cleveland Works, the workforce development board for Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. More than just job matchmakers, Greater Cleveland Works drives opportunity and innovation, connecting businesses with skilled talent and creating pathways to prosperity for our communities. Join us for this engaging discussion! 📅 Tuesday, April 1, 2025 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 💻 Livestream starts at noon 🎫 Purchase your tickets here and save 20% on non-member tickets by using the code TRANSFORM: https://lnkd.in/eEZUZeGV

Head Start does more than prepare children for school, it strengthens entire communities by empowering families. Reliable early education allows parents to work, further their education, or learn new skills, helping them build financial stability and contribute to the local economy. Nationwide, 539,848 Head Start parents are employed, in school, or receiving job training while their children learn in a safe, nurturing environment. ➡️ Head Start’s funding expires tomorrow on March 14. Without a full budget, a government shutdown could disrupt services for thousands of families. Tell your representatives why funding Head Start is important for communities: https://bit.ly/4ifIkvS #HeadStartWorks #HeadStartAdvantage #SupportHeadStart 

Early education strengthens communities by setting children up for lifelong success. In Ohio alone, more than 30,000 children benefit from federal Head Start funds. These programs give children, regardless of background, the foundation they need to thrive. 📢 ️ Head Start’s funding expires on March 14. Without a budget, a government shutdown could disrupt services for thousands of families. Tell your representatives why funding Head Start is important for communities: https://bit.ly/4ifIkvS #HeadStartWorks #HeadStartAdvantage #SupportHeadStart 

In Ohio, Head Start operates 1,820 classrooms and employs 9,000+ staff. It’s more than just a program—it’s a trusted community partner made up of your neighbors, and right now, it needs your help. Head Start is currently funded through a temporary budget that expires on March 14. Congress must pass a full-year budget before then to ensure continued funding for these vital programs. Without it, a government shutdown could disrupt services, leaving thousands of children and families without critical services and resources. ➡️ Tell your representatives why funding Head Start is important for communities: https://bit.ly/4ifIkvS #HeadStartWorks #HeadStartAdvantage #SupportHeadStart 

We are proud to announce that Step Forward’s President and CEO, Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm, will be a featured panelist for the PNC Fairfax Connection 2025 Speaker Series discussion: Legacy Builders: Historic Women Reshaping Cleveland! Dr. Chisholm will join esteemed leaders Marsha Mockabee and Yolanda Armstrong for a thought-provoking conversation on the powerful contributions of women who have shaped Cleveland’s history and those continuing to drive change today.

Congratulations to Step Forward's very own Head Start Program Services Manager, Angela Anderson, on joining the Ohio Head Start Association, Inc. Board as a Northeast Representative! We are thrilled to see her dedication to supporting Head Start families and look forward to the positive impact she will make. Congratulations, Angela!

We're excited to share that last month, Step Forward’s Board of Directors welcomed its newly sworn-in officers, each bringing a deep commitment to our mission. Congratulations to Judge Michael J. Ryan, Board Chair; Eugenia Cash, Board Vice Chair; Cecil B. Lee, Board Treasurer; and Joyce Walker, Board Secretary. Their leadership and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to grow, make an impact, and serve our community!