Who we are
Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network (HCAN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the only one in the state of Hawaiʻi solely committed to advocating for children. We address the root causes of poverty and inequity and develop public policies that help children and their families.
Our Mission: Build a unified voice educating and advocating for Hawaiʻi's children.
Our Vision: All of Hawaiʻi's children are healthy, safe and ready to learn.
Why we exist
We believe every child deserves a fighting chance to realize their full potential and focus our work on advancing public policy that impacts the systems that serve children. The overall well-being of Hawaiʻi's children ranks 26th in the nation. Their economic well-being ranks 44th with 12% (36,000) living in poverty; their education ranking is 32, with 50% of young children NOT in school and 66% of 4th graders reading BELOW grade level. Poverty alleviation starts at birth and it is our responsibility to invest in our children.
What we do
Advocate for smart policies and investments in our children.
Build and strengthen coalitions among nonprofit organizations and individuals to plan and strategize successful solutions to children’s issues. When necessary, we also train those organizations on how advocacy or policy and systems change works.
Mobilize individuals and communities, creating a strong movement for children’s issues.
Analyze data and research on health and well-being of children in Hawaiʻi.
Create strategic partnerships with businesses and philanthropic organizations who care about children's issues.
Contact
Zoë Brooks-Jeffiers • HCAN Communications and Development Coordinator
[email protected]
(808) 531-5502 ext. 7