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
OCT-NOV
Texas Tour
Each fall, CHILDREN AT RISK brings early childhood leaders and stakeholders together for community-centered conversations in 12 major Texas cities to exchange insights, examine regional experiences, and envision a stronger future for child care across Texas.
Nov 10
Education Summit
Through policy insights, expert guidance, and cross-sector perspectives, participants will examine responsible AI adoption, effective implementation strategies, and opportunities to strengthen teaching, learning, workforce preparation, and institutional operations.
Nov 12
Children’s Agenda
Join us for advocacy updates and opportunities shaping the next cycle of child focused policy. Alongside key partners, we’ll outline our legislative priorities, highlight emerging legislative pathways, and equip participants with a clear understanding of what is at stake for children and families
Coming Up
Stay in touch as C@R shares our upcoming events!
CHILDREN AT RISK is dedicated to bringing the most relevant and engaging events to our communities. From regional visits to educational opportunities or network events, join our network to stay up-to-date on the latest events or advocacy actions available.
The Latest from C@R
Bexar County Child Health Initiative Report 2026
CHILDREN AT RISK (C@R), Family Service, and the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University partnered to launch the CHI in response to Community Health Needs Assessments that signaled poor mental health, nutrition, and hightened rates of chronic disease for...
Recommendations for the Texas Sunset Commission Ahead of the 90th Texas Legislature
Related: Click here to read CHILDREN AT RISK’s Texas Interim Charge RecommendationsEvery 12 years, most Texas state agencies undergo a comprehensive review by the Sunset Advisory Commission, a process that includes staff analysis, public input, and legislative...
Interim Charges for the 89th Texas Legislature
Related: Click here to read CHILDREN AT RISK’s Texas Sunset Commission Recommendations.Texas lawmakers convene once every two years for the regular Texas Legislative Session. The period between sessions, known as the Interim, is a critical time for legislative study...
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
Get Involved
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