Iowa ACEs 360 Launches Effort to Expand Collective Advocacy Capacity

This fall, we are launching an 18-month effort to expand engagement and collaboration with groups working to respond to ACEs in local communities across Iowa. The focus of this project will be to build collective advocacy efforts to improve supports for children and families, especially in underserved and marginalized communities.

Activities include:

• Analyzing policy solutions that focus on family and children well-being.
• Developing shared messaging that effectively elevates policy solutions.
• Providing training on how ACEs are connected to the social determinants of health and how to advocate for systems-level changes that lead to equity.
• Supporting local advocacy efforts and connections with state leaders.

 
This work is made possible by a $50,000 Community Change Grant from Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation, which focuses on innovative projects that address key health issues by engaging systems change at the community level. Our work also continues to be generously supported by Mid-Iowa Health Foundation, which recently awarded Iowa ACEs 360 a three-year operating grant to focus on systems-change work that improves health outcomes for children and families.
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“When organizations like Delta Dental and Mid-Iowa Health Foundation recognize the importance of our mission, our coalition and our state are substantially strengthened,” said Lisa Cushatt, executive director, Iowa ACEs 360. “These grants will allow us to expand outreach and build a network of advocates in communities, especially to those at greater risk including persons of color, women, and those living below the federal poverty level.” 
 
We’ll share updates about this project, including training and network engagement