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.

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

Upcoming Events & Activities

March 6

Early Childhood Education Advocacy Day

CHILDREN AT RISK and the TXAEYC invite you to join Texas Legislators in highlighting the importance of quality, affordable child care for working families and the Texas economy. Join us on the South Steps of the Capitol and make your voices heard!

March 13

Protecting Children in the Digital Age: Solutions for Preventing Exploitation & Trafficking 

Join us for a learning summit that addresses digital threats and prevention strategies, featuring experts from child safety, law enforcement, and policy sectors discussing AI, social media, and trafficking.

March 28

Stand Up For Children

Signature Event

From SNL to Stand Up for Children, Fred Armisen will be bringing all the laughs on Friday, March 28, 2025 at 6:30pm at The Post Oak Hotel. Join us for an unforgettable evening of cocktails, gourmet dining, premier auction, and unforgettable comedy!

May 2

25th Annual Golf Classic

Mark your calendars for the 25th Anniversary of the CHILDREN AT RISK Annual Golf Classic on May 2nd, 2025. Join us for a milestone event that continues to drive critical support for Texas children, advancing their rights to education, health, and a safe future.

The Latest from C@R

Chronic Absenteeism Legislative District Profiles

Chronic Absenteeism Legislative District Profiles

Welcome to CHILDREN AT RISK's Chronic Absenteeism Policy Resource hub, where you can explore the data landscape of each Texas House and Senate district.Chronic absenteeism is an early warning sign for educators. A student who is chronically absent in any year between...

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RECAP | C@R Hosts 2024 STEM Summit

RECAP | C@R Hosts 2024 STEM Summit

This post was written by Susannah Young, Associate Director of PreK-12 Education, CHILDREN AT RISK.On Thursday, October 17th, CHILDREN AT RISK (C@R), Texas Family Leadership Council, Shell, and Boardwalk Pipelines hosted the annual STEM Summit, "Innovating the STEM...

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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.