Issues impacting young children and their families that fuel my passion are those that are produced from child poverty. Issues such as learning gaps, lack of health care, lack of access to quality early learning experiences, homelessness combined with other issues that are connected the results of poverty. As I think about the skills that I have that can contribute to the efforts of advocacy towards these issues, I think about how I know that I have to take one step at a time and focus on one issue individually. I know that I can not look at child poverty as a whole and try to solve that problem but I have the skill to know that I must have a focus. I also know that I must stay current with what is happening in the area of research to best find ways in combating the issue that I chose to focus on. One other important skill I have gained is the capacity to learn how to collaborate with those that hold similar interest around an advocacy interest. The more people, the more power.
As I have learned these skills I have already began to build partnership with organizations that are committed to the issues in which I am. I also work hard to stay current with these issues and the politics surrounding them. Having the ability and understanding to build a case for advocacy is a skill that will also assist me in being a better advocate. Ways that I want to grow in becoming a better advocate are to find opportunities to volunteer and personally partner with groups that advocate for issues that look out for what is best for children. I also want to continue to stay current with any issues and political forums that affect young children and families. It is my hope that this type of advancement will assist me in becoming an effective advocate.
Gloria,
ReplyDeleteI think that is a wondeful point, to focus on one issue at a time individually. I believe sometimes we look at the general issue, such as child poverty it is easy to become overwhelmed. By focusing on one issue at a time we can affect change.
Gloria,
ReplyDeleteYou seem to have an excellent grasp on your skills. It is hard to stay focused when it's so easy to get caught up in the bigger picture. As advocates we want to change the world over night but that is truly impossible. It is important to keep everything in perspective and know your limits. Picking one thing at a time is a great strategy and much more realistic. Thank you for reminding me of this!
Gloria,
ReplyDeleteOne thing that I will say is that taking one step at a time is going to be major for all of us. The issues surrounding early childhood is so great they can sometimes become overwhelming. However,I do believe that we are able to be great advocates when we establish partnerships with other people and organizations that may specialize in certain areas of our advocacy efforts.
We must stay current with issues to remaine effective advocates. I do believe that you will be a great advocate.
Hi Gloria,
ReplyDeleteI liked your comment regarding to focus on one issue at a time. It is essential to the families goals that we are able to look at them individually and to build on our partnerships. Each person has different needs and wants and we need to focus on each one idvidually. Great point!