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 8-31
Fall Early Childhood Texas Tour
Join us to weigh in on a grassroots strategy that improves child care across our state, and builds a more sustainable system that supports young children, their families, and child care providers.
Oct 22
Texas A+ Challenge: From Teacher to Leader
This session is designed for new instructional coaches, specialists, team leaders, and educators stepping into leadership roles. Using hands-on, practical strategies, attendees will walk away ready to lead, coach, and support colleagues with confidence.
Oct 31
Accolades: The Academy Awards of Child Advocacy
Join us at the lovely Hotel ZaZa (Museum District) for our 2025 Accolades Luncheon. A fan-favorite each year, this inspiring event celebrates changemakers who are working tirelessly to advance systems that improve the lives of Texas children.
Nov 13
STEM Summit
This year’s STEM Summit will explore the current state of STEM education, emphasize the importance of diversity and representation, and showcase inspiring career journeys. Join us to learn how STEM connects to daily life and how we can better prepare the next generation of innovators.
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
ELQN August Newsletter
Harris County Department of Economic Equity & Opportunity's Early Learning Quality Network (ELQN)Subscribe to ELQN updates for the latest information on community initiatives, engagement opportunities, and mile markers. Many ELQN initiatives are designed to...
C@R Statement in Response to the Release of TEA’s 2025 Accountability Ratings
Media Contacts: Morgan Gerri, 832.600.9354 Rashena Franklin, 713.301.4577 IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 15, 2025 The 2025 TEA Accountability Ratings show what is possible when improvement is measured and made public. For the first time in years, Houston ISD has no...
Event Recap: 89th Legislative Summit
On July 10th, CHILDREN AT RISK hosted a 89th Legislative Debrief, which consisted of experts, advocates, and policymakers who were at the forefront of legislative discussions, who analyzed the implications of new laws and identify areas where further action is needed....
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.