🟫 Early Learning & National Service
A ranked guide to advocacy groups protecting vital programs like Head Start and AmeriCorps
These organizations defend the public investments that build future leaders and learners. They work to expand access, protect funding, and uplift the stories of those who benefit from early learning and civic service programs.
Use this guide to find ways to advocate for, educate, and invest in tomorrow’s changemakers. Explore their websites for petitions, toolkits, volunteer opportunities, and legislative updates.
About These Advocacy Group Guides: I’ve created more than 60 issue advocacy guides to help people connect with effective organizations and take meaningful action. If you’re interested in other issues, you can explore them all here: Advocacy Groups by Issue.
🔝 Top 10 Advocacy Organizations
National Head Start Association (NHSA)
The leading voice for over 800,000 Head Start children and families, NHSA provides robust advocacy tools, policy updates, and mobilization campaigns to protect early childhood programs.
A bipartisan coalition advocating for AmeriCorps and national service funding, offering action alerts, congressional outreach tools, and legislative tracking.
National Peace Corps Association (NPCA)
Representing over 240,000 Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, NPCA leads campaigns to strengthen Peace Corps funding, volunteer safety, and global partnerships.
Focused on expanding national service opportunities, this organization supports AmeriCorps, VISTA, and Peace Corps alumni through campaigns like “Serve America Together.”
Washington State Alliance of Head Start & ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program)
A regional leader advocating for early learning investments in Washington State, WSA partners with parents and programs to influence policies supporting low-income families.
AmeriCorps Alums (via Service Year Alliance)
Empowering former AmeriCorps members to advocate for service programs, this network offers toolkits and campaigns to engage alumni in policy discussions.
Mobilizing higher education institutions to address poverty through AmeriCorps VISTA programs, focusing on capacity building and community engagement.
Combining legal advocacy with AmeriCorps VISTA service to support affordable housing and justice initiatives in underserved communities.
The Washington state commission for national service, coordinating AmeriCorps and VISTA programs to address local needs in education, disaster response, and more.
Defending the Early Years (DEY)
DEY advocates for just and equitable early childhood education policies, emphasizing the importance of play-based learning and child-centered approaches.
🔗 Official Program Websites
🔍 Top Issues to Watch
Proposed Elimination of Head Start: The Trump administration's leaked budget suggests terminating Head Start funding by September, citing controversial claims about the program’s curriculum and beneficiaries.
AmeriCorps Funding Cuts: Significant reductions, including a 90% staff cut and termination of $400 million in grants, threaten the viability of AmeriCorps programs nationwide.
Peace Corps Program Reductions: Concerns over the suspension of foreign aid programs and the impact on Peace Corps operations have been raised, emphasizing the need for sustained support.
Legal Challenges to Program Cuts: Multiple states and organizations have filed lawsuits against the federal government, alleging unlawful dismantling of national service programs.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Cuts to these programs disproportionately affect low-income families, children, and communities relying on services provided by Head Start and AmeriCorps.