Wisconsin Funders for Children & Families
Collaborative. Advocate. Transform.
The Wisconsin Funders for Children & Families Collaborative is a statewide network of philanthropic leaders dedicated to advancing policies, programs, and funding that support the well-being of children, youth, and families. Through shared learning, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, we aim to foster systemic change that strengthens communities and builds a brighter future for Wisconsin’s children and families.
Why This Matters
Wisconsin families face increasing challenges in accessing safe, high-quality care:
- Rising Costs: Child care costs increased by 14% between 2022 and 2023, outpacing inflation.
- Limited Availability: Half of Wisconsin families live in areas where demand far exceeds supply, with rural areas facing the most severe shortages.
- Economic Impact: A lack of childcare and out-of-school time programs limits workforce participation, increases absenteeism, and contributes to mental health and educational challenges for children and youth.
Focus Areas
The collaborative will work to strengthen Wisconsin’s systems of care for kids, while identifying additional key policy areas for collective action. Together members will:
- Enhance advocacy efforts and amplify collective impact through collaboration and shared strategies.
- Engage in the 2025-2027 budget process and co-create strategies for future biennial budget planning.
- Map current funding initiatives to identify gaps, align resources, and maximize impact.
- Expand partnerships with government agencies, advocacy organizations, and community leaders.
- Explore new public funding streams for children and families.
- Support narrative-shifting campaigns that drive systemic change.
Founding Members & Supporters
- Basic Needs Giving Partnership
- Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region
- Greater Milwaukee Foundation
- Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation
- Madison Community Foundation
- Madison Public Schools Foundation
- Northwestern Mutual Foundation
- PRL Keystone Foundation
- Roots & Wings Foundation
- United Way of Dane County
Wisconsin Children & Youth Fiscal Map
The Wisconsin Children and Youth Fiscal Map tracks the state and federal public dollars allocated to programs and services that help children grow up educated, employable, healthy, safe, supported and connected – from prenatal through young adulthood. By combining data from a wide range of funding streams, the map provides a comprehensive view of how Wisconsin invests in its young people.