As the year comes to a close, we at Groundwork have finally paused to catch our collective breath and look back at the significant progress we’ve made. Over the course of the year, we have expanded our capacity to better inform policy makers, stakeholders, and the general public about sound policy to serve Ohio’s youngest children. We started 2018 with two employees and we will be entering 2019 with four—all laser focused on building Ohio’s quality early learning system. In addition, we have strengthened our relationships with key decision makers in the legislature and administration, developed new relationships with incoming policy makers, and solidified ourselves as the trusted “go-to” statewide expert resource for early childhood education with a diverse array of stakeholders.
At the same time, Groundwork embarked on two bold projects in 2018: the Ohio Early Childhood Race and Rural Equity Project and the Vote for Ohio Kids Campaign. Through these strategic initiatives, we have brought a strong voice to ALL Ohio children and elevated the urgent need to invest in proven, high-quality early interventions. Simply put, our work this year has created the opportunity for real progress for Ohio’s youngest learners in the coming months and years.
But we couldn’t have done this without you. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the many passionate child advocates, early education stakeholders, and generous funders that have made this work possible. As you review the many successes included in this 2018 Impact Report, we hope you see your own handprints in the progress we’ve made for Ohio kids. Although there is still much work to be done, we are energized by your commitment and look forward to continuing this important work with you in 2019.
Thank you for the trust you place in us to lead the fight for Ohio’s youngest and most vulnerable learners. With your continued enthusiastic support, we can make a real difference in our great state.
Warm personal regards, Shannon Jones Executive Director Groundwork Ohio
Groundwork Ohio Holiday Stakeholder Meeting
This week, Groundwork hosted our annual Holiday Stakeholder Meetings to celebrate this year's successes and discuss our goals for 2019. Thanks to all of our Executive and Advisory Committee members, funders, and dedicated stakeholders who have helped make this one of the best years yet for Groundwork Ohio!
On May 8, 2019 early childhood stakeholders from across the state of Ohio will come together in Columbus to bring awareness to the importance of investments in early childhood education and communicate this important information to our legislators. We need your help to make sure the importance of early education issues rings loud and clear!