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
Press Conference: Education, Legislation, and Workforce Alignment in Texas
Changes to school funding, teacher certification requirements, and public education policy poised to reshape academic recovery and career preparation for Texas students. Media Contacts:Morgan Gerri, 832.600.9354Rashena Franklin, 713.301.4577 HOUSTON, TX (June 6, 2025)...
ELQN May Newsletter
Harris County Department of Economic Equity & Opportunity's Early Learning Quality Network (ELQN) Empowering caregivers. Strengthening communities. Building early learning quality, together.Subscribe to ELQN updates for the latest information on community...
State Senator César J. Blanco Passes Bill to Help Young Adults inWest Texas Get Back to School and Work
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Taylor Sanchez Taylor.sanchez@senate.texas.gov Austin, Texas – The Texas Senate has passed Senate Bill 1143, authored by Senator César J. Blanco, to help reconnect young adults in West Texas with education, job training, and career...
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.