The Pritzker Early Childhood Foundation (PECF) believes that the early years of life are the most important period in a person's development. In the past, not much thought was given to this stage in a child's life.  Nowadays, research confirms that the period between birth and age five is a critical period of growth and development which sets the basis for future health, wellness and success.

 

All children need proper nurturance, care and stimulation to reach their potential. Fortunately, there are evidence-based programs that have been proven to greatly increase the chances for a happy, healthy future for children whose families lack resources.

 

Our experience suggests that too often such initiatives are introduced, tested, found successful and then fade away or remain as unique models affecting a limited number of children.  Our grantmaking strategy is to assist models of best practice to replicate or to be employed more broadly.  Our overarching goal is to ensure that best practices for serving young children and their families are widely used.

 

PECF funds agencies which can further the reach of evidence-based programs that are grounded in research either by supporting replication in additional sites or through training staff in a specific program.  As a result of our grants, agencies should create permanent changes so that more effective practices will be continued over the long run, after a particular grant period is over. 

 

Beginning in 2012, PECF will concentrate more of its grantmaking in the Chicago area and statewide in Illinois.  PECF will consider grants in other geographic areas for special opportunities.