When you were a child, what did you dream you would grow up to be?

Millions of children in America dream only to make it through the next day - to have enough food, a home, protection, and love. Every year 12 million U.S. children live in poverty, 2.8 million are reported abused or neglected, and 1.7 million run away from home. The Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) has worked since 1920 with agencies nationwide and in your community to prevent these tragedies and help children heal. CWLA gives these agencies vital information and inspiration to shape sound public policies, deliver results, and make dreams come true. Our goal is Making Children a National Priority - one child, one community, at a time.

The Child Welfare League of America and our nearly 1,000 member agencies believe that ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all children is paramount to the role and functions of government. We know that shortchanging our children today endangers the long-term well-being of our nation. Throughout the year, CWLA examines all avenues and opportunities to ensure that the needs of children, youth, and families are addressed in national, state, and local government. By working together, we can have an America where no child is abused or neglected and every child achieves his or her full potential as a positive, contributing member of a family and community and of society. We invite you-we need you-to join us in the fight to Make Children a National Priority.