Urge Virginia Lawmakers to Invest in Kids This Legislative Session
Send a welcome message today to your state lawmakers and remind them to keep kids a priority this legislative session.
Virginians overwhelmingly support investing in our kids, and especially early education.
This is key because research shows the first five years of children’s lives are critically important for their development. We’re committed to ensuring all children succeed in school and life.
Send a welcome message today to your state lawmakers and remind them to keep kids a priority this legislative session.
I recently returned from Washington, D.C., where I was joined by nearly 200 fellow advocates to attend Save the Children Action Network’s annual Advocacy Summit. After such a long and difficult period — especially for kids and families — it was inspiring to be surrounded by such dedicated change-makers.
The Virginia Senate has proposed investing an additional $44.3 million in early childhood education and pre-K programs over the next two years. If passed into law, the increase in funding will help more kids across Virginia access early learning opportunities and empower families with better child care options.
In November, Virginia voters have the chance to prioritize children and families by voting for candidates who also prioritize them — particularly those who support quality and affordable child care for all Virginia families by 2030.
Austin Walker
Advisor, State & National Campaigns
She/Her
Austin Walker is a master’s level social worker and experienced policy advocate who has dedicated her career to driving positive outcomes for families and communities across the Commonwealth. She has a background in state government, having served in former Governor Northam’s administration as well as the legislative office of State Senator Jennifer McClellan. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia and Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. Austin lives in Richmond with her husband and dog, Rosie.