This episode of The Nonprofit Report features Voices for Georgia’s Children, a statewide nonpartisan policy and advocacy organization dedicated to improving the well-being of all children in Georgia through a whole-child approach.
Guests:
Judy Fitzgerald, Executive Director
Cindy Abel, Chair of the Board
Katie Landes, Director of Georgia Afterschool Network
Interview by: Mark Oppenheim
Key Points:
- Voices advances policies addressing health, education, mental health, and physical wellness through an integrated, whole-child approach.
- The organization partners with community groups, state agencies, and philanthropic organizations, offering evidence-based policy recommendations.
- Their advocacy work contributes to Georgia’s nationally recognized Pre-K program and annual “Pre-K Week” engagement events.
- The team has championed expansion of the Apex program, bringing school-based behavioral health services to over 700 schools.
- Overall, the work they do prioritizes fairness, equity, and support for children farthest from opportunity.
- Voices for Georgia’s Children operates the Georgia Afterschool Network, advocating for expanded afterschool and summer programs, including the proposed $20M “BOOST 2.0” initiative.
- The board ensures bipartisan credibility, governance, and strategic vision.
- Some of the organization’s future plans include incorporating youth voices in policy, anticipating child well-being trends, and fostering trust-based collaboration.
Other Points on Voices for Georgia’s Children:
Voices for Georgia’s Children works to dismantle barriers that prevent children from accessing the care, education, and opportunities they deserve. This includes aligning stakeholders from multiple sectors to tackle issues such as food security, health coverage, and access to early learning.
The Apex program’s success in integrating behavioral health into schools has shifted mindsets, helping to normalize mental health support as part of overall student success. Early resistance has given way to strong bipartisan backing, illustrating the impact of persistent, evidence-based advocacy.
The Georgia Afterschool Network not only promotes program quality but also ensures funding and policy environments support community-based organizations statewide. Training, networking, and partnerships extend the reach and effectiveness of local providers.