December 2010 All Hands Raised Update from CEO, Dan Ryan

Dear Children and Youth Advocates –

Thank you for all of your words of encouragement and support over the last few weeks-it has been helpful as we work toward drafting a business plan, developing an organizational plan, and crafting a communications strategy to expand the work of Cradle to Career (C2C). Your ideas and insights are helpful as we work together to build a strong base of support.

As we prepare for a productive 2011, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your work and your willingness to come together to stay focused on what is right for our kids. As I reflect on the past few weeks and months I am astounded at how far we have come together in such a short period of time. I am excited for what the year ahead will bring, and look forward to working in partnership with you and the organizations you represent to move C2C forward.

Finally, as we connect with our partner cities engaged in this work around the nation, we are becoming more aware of how we need to frame our thinking to make the greatest impact for our children and youth. The attached article, published in the Stanford Social Review Winter 2011 edition provides insightful thinking about the work and impact of this C2C framework, and how the power of “Collective Impact” is moving the dial for kids. How refreshing that a credible source took the time to wrestle with this transformative framework that is basically radical common sense.

Wishing you and your families a restful and joyful holiday season.

Sincerely,

Dan