Our Mission
CHILDREN AT RISK serves as a catalyst for change to improve the quality of life for children through strategic research, public policy analysis, education, collaboration, and advocacy.
What We Do
Data & Research
We use research and data to understand the needs of Texas children and their families. This research drives our advocacy agenda and helps us develop evidence-based policy recommendations.
Policy Advocacy
Research and data alone are not enough to drive change for children. We use our research to develop bipartisan policy recommendations that have the most impact and speak up to inform policymakers.
Collaboration
We work better together. We rely on partners across the state to support our research and data collection, provide regional insights, and amplify our advocacy efforts through collective action.
Upcoming Events & Activities
March 27
Stand Up for Children
Join us or an unforgettable evening of comedy, auctions, and impact that raises vital funds to support C@R’s work ensuring children have access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and a life free from exploitation.
April
Spring Texas Tour
Each spring, our Early Childhood Education team hosts virtual community roundtables across 12 major cities in Texas. During these sessions, C@R experts share updates from the research, legislative advocacy updates, and engage in meaningful grassroots conversations with child care stakeholders.
May 14
The Future of Children: Global Perspectives
Join us for a future minded event grounded in the latest developments shaping child well-being. National experts will join this virtual gathering to explore emerging systemic changes in food, health, housing, technology, immigration, and more.
June 8
CHILDREN AT RISK Golf Classic
For more than two decades, the Golf Classic has raised critical funds to advance our mission of improving the lives of children across Texas. Join us at the fabulous Houston Golf Club on June 8th to hit birdies for bright futures and fore Children!
Our Areas of Expertise
CHILDREN AT RISK focuses on 3 key areas that can help break the cycle of poverty and enable children to learn, thrive, and meet their full potential.
Education
Health
Safety & Opportunity
We are committed to viewing all the work we do with an Equity & Justice lens and an Immigrant Children lens.
Equity & Justice
Immigrant Children
The Latest from C@R
2024 Annual Report
Dear Friends and Advocates, At CHILDREN AT RISK, we believe that every child deserves a fair shot at success—and we know that it takes all of us to make that happen. Whether you’re a policymaker, educator, donor, volunteer, or advocate, your partnership has helped...
Connecting Across the Lone Star State: Reflections from CHILDREN AT RISK’s Spring 2025 Texas Tour
This spring, CHILDREN AT RISK’s early childhood team had the incredible opportunity to connect with our early learning family across Texas! While virtual tours may not physically transport us to the stunning beauty of an East Texas wildflower patch or the vibrant hues...
Press Conference: Harris County’s ELQN Announces Community Initiatives & Vendors to Enhance Early Learning Environments
Photo courtesy of Darlene Whittaker, Community Liaison I, Pct I & III- Early Learning Quality Network, Harris County Public LibrarySix quality initiatives, selected by the community, will be released through the summer to address access to quality child care in...
Get Involved
Are you a Champion for Children?
For the 7.3 million children in Texas, you can be by giving a monthly recurring donation to Children at Risk.
Ready to speak out #ForChildren?
Sign up for our newsletters to stay up-to-date on our latest research, events, and advocacy opportunities.

