The Early Childhood Changemakers (EC2) initiative is a statewide network of community leaders, parents, and advocates working together to ensure that every child in Georgia has a strong start from birth to age five. Powered by GEEARS, Changemakers centers the voices, experiences, and leadership of those closest to the challenges and the solutions facing young children and families. 

Through training, connection, and individual as well as collective action, Changemakers build a movement of informed advocates who are shaping policies, influencing systems, and strengthening communities across Georgia. 

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Why the Early Childhood Changemakers Initiative Matters 

Families across Georgia are navigating rising costs, limited access to quality child care, and gaps in health and family supports. At the same time, communities hold deep knowledge, lived experience, and the power to drive meaningful change. 

Changemakers exists to bridge that gap by equipping everyday leaders with the tools, relationships, and confidence to: 

  • Advocate for policies that support children and families 
  • Partner with local leaders and decision-makers 
  • Amplify community voice in systems and spaces where decisions are made 

This work is critical to advancing GEEARS’ vision of a Georgia where every child has access to high-quality early learning and a foundation for lifelong success. 

How It Works 

Changemakers is structured to support engagement at multiple levels: 

  • The Network – A growing community of individuals who want to stay informed, connected, and engaged in early childhood issues across Georgia.
  • The Cohort Experience – Selected Changemakers participate in a year-long leadership experience that includes: 
    • Advocacy and policy training aligned with GEEARS’ priorities 
    • Monthly meetings and one-on-one coaching 
    • Opportunities to engage in local and statewide actions 
    • A stipend to support their time and leadership 
  • The Alumni Community (Champions) 
    Graduates of the program continue their leadership journey as Champions by mentoring new members, leading community efforts, and serving as trusted voices in advocacy spaces. 

        What Changemakers Do 

        Changemakers turn knowledge into action in ways that are meaningful to their communities. Activities may include: 

        • Hosting and participating in community conversations and events 
        • Meeting with legislators and local decision-makers 
        • Sharing stories that highlight the realities and strengths of families 
        • Partnering with local organizations, schools, and businesses 
        • Supporting campaigns aligned with GEEARS’ policy agenda  

        Every action is rooted in relationship-building, trust, and a shared commitment to equity. 

        Where We Work 

        Changemakers is building a statewide presence with active cohorts in communities across Georgia, including: 

        •  Augusta
        • Columbus
        • Statesboro
        • Athens
        • Savannah
        • Dublin
        • Gainesville
        • Rome  

        Our Impact 

        Changemakers is more than a program, it’s a movement. By investing in people and communities, we are: 

        • Strengthening local advocacy ecosystems 
        • Increasing community representation in policy conversations 
        • Building long-term leadership pipelines for early childhood advocacy 
        • Advancing policies that support families, workforce participation, and child well-being 

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              Get Involved!

              Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, community leader, or advocate, there’s a place for you in Changemakers. Together, we are building a Georgia where every child and every family can thrive.