MCA Mission and Goals
"Giving Maine Kids a Voice"
MISSION
The Maine Children's Alliance (MCA) is committed to improving the lives of Maine’s children, youth and families.
We provide nonpartisan leadership to promote and advocate for sound public policies that benefit Maine’s children. We are a respected and reliable source of data and information about the status and well-being of Maine’s children. We effect positive change by fostering coalitions, consensus and improved systems that affect the lives of children in Maine.
VISION
To be a strong and credible voice for all Maine children
The Maine Children's Alliance values those who "stick their necks out for kids"--that's why our symbol is the giraffe. Each year we honor people in our community who do great work on behalf of Maine's children, and these "Champions for Children" are given Giraffe Awards for their contributions.
PRIORITIES
The Maine Children’s Alliance aims to improve the lives of Maine’s children, youth and families in these areas:
- Physical and Mental Health
- Economic and Social Status
- Education and Learning
PROGRAMS
MCA work on behalf of its mission includes these programs:
- Compiling and producing the annual Maine KIDS COUNT report—the state’s premier source of data on the status and well-being of Maine’s children, youth and families
- Leading statewide efforts to improve EARLY CHILDHOOD SYSTEMS, including education, child care, health and development
- Operating the Maine State Child Welfare OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM, providing an impartial resource to children, youth and families involved with the foster care system
- Collaborating with other groups in Maine and New England to support local and national efforts to REDUCE POVERTY among children and families