Charitable organizations must follow laws and rules regarding formal advocacy efforts. They need to be careful in their communication and must remain non-partisan at all times or face a loss of charitable status and loss of any government grants or supports. The following organized groups advocate for children, families and the early childhood profession in various capacities. As leaders you can volunteer your time as a board member or be involved in working groups.
The following links are to advocacy organizations in Canada and Alberta.
Association of Early Childhood Educators of Alberta (AECEA). As a student in the Leadership Certificate at RDP you are entitled to a free student membership until June 2025. Be sure you take advantage of the opprtunity! The are often looking for ELCC leaders as new board members each fall.
The Canadian Child Care Federation (CCCF) is a National not for profit organization, affiliated with all provincial ELCC professional associations. They are a voice for early childhood educators and provide many resources and supports.
The Child Care Advocacy Association of Canada (CCAAC) is a non-profit organization that promotes quality and accessibility.
Child Care Now Alberta (Child Care Now Alberta) advocates by raising public awareness, responding to policy documents, and working with all three levels of government.
The Prosperity Project is a charitable organization that supports underrepresented women. They are advocating for a Canada-wide ELCC system to support racialized women and families. If you click the link Learn More Here you can find a link to their open letter.
The Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC) provides a different type of advocacy for children who are abused or neglected. They are currently building a new building on the RDP campus. If you do not live in Central Alberta, take a look at where the closed Child Advocacy Centre is to you, as there are many locations around the province.
The Association of Alberta Childcare Entrepreneurs (AACE) engages in advocacy efforts for private childcare operators (business owners).
Credits: Red Deer Polytechnic's "Early Childhood Education Leadership Development" Faculty
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