Dear John - It all started with Save the Children Action Network (SCAN) volunteers surrounded by hay bales at the Iowa State Fair in 2018. There during the “soapbox” (a rite of passage for presidential candidates in Iowa), a SCAN volunteer asked entrepreneur Andrew Yang how he would prioritize early childhood education if elected president. That one question blossomed into 268 SCAN volunteers attending 130 candidate events. And one of the biggest moments so far was when CNN debate moderators asked a question about child care affordability submitted by one of our volunteers – Tiffany – in January! As we started interacting with more candidates, nearly every candidate shared his or her plan for expanding early learning programs, like child care and preschool. The candidates came to know our amazing volunteers and seek them out to thank them for raising critical kids’ issues. Not only that but 9 candidates committed – on video! – to prioritize early education in their first 100 days of office. I’m so proud of these volunteers, John! They showed up during the hot, sticky summer months and in the dark, cold winter months. They never quit – including on caucus night! And speaking of caucuses, we don't yet know who the winner is. You can learn where the candidates stand on vital kids' issues by visiting our website. Now Team Iowa is passing the baton to SCAN volunteers in New Hampshire and South Carolina. They have also been doing a phenomenal job of engaging presidential candidates. This experience reminds me of the huge difference people can make when they care enough to show up and demand change for our nation’s most precious resource – our children. Thank you for being a voice for kids, |