Beyond ABC: Growing Up in Collin County

The first edition of Beyond ABC: Growing Up in Collin County report (PDF) was released in May 2008 by Children's Medical Center, providing a comprehensive look at the quality of life for children in the community. This report presents 12 years of data on 61 indicators of child health, education, safety and economic security. It is a powerful tool designed to better understand the needs of the nearly 180,000 children who call Collin County home.

How the Coalition Was Formed

The Children First! Collin County Coalition was formed in June 2008 as a result of the recommendation of the Beyond ABC: Growing Up in Collin County Advisory Board, which includes city and county staff, educators, civic group members, non-profit agency leaders and healthcare providers. The board devoted significant effort to developing this first edition report.  The coalition is fully underwritten by Children's Medical Center.

Children First! is comprised of more than 80 Collin County-based organizations focused on the well-being of children in the community.   The Coalition will address pressing problems affecting children in the county including poverty, access to healthcare and abuse.  Five Work Groups have begun efforts to improve the areas of economic security, education, family strengthening, health and safety.

The coalition is chaired by  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Plano Council of PTAs, and This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  of Children's Medical Center.

Our Vision

All children in Collin County will have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Our Mission

Children First! will work to improve the quality of life of children through the development of strategic initiatives related to public policy, advocacy, public awareness and community programs.

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