Press conference held with Congressman Morelle to advocate for increased investment in early childhood education 

Early childhood education is crucial for a child's learning, social development, and future success. Data indicates that children who attend two years of pre-kindergarten are significantly more prepared for kindergarten than those who attend only one year.

We recently joined Congressman Morelle, Action for a Better Community, Ibero American Action League, and The Children’s Agenda to advocate for increased investment in early childhood education. Our Wildly Important Goal is to increase the number of students who benefit from high-quality pre-kindergarten, ensuring more students are ready for kindergarten. Federal cuts to education pose a significant threat to early learning and can dismantle pathways to upward mobility for our children.

As an alliance, we are united in defending the progress we've made to improve these outcomes.

You can learn more by reading the press release.

ROC the Future Alliance launches Policy Change Workgroup

We are excited to announce the formation of our new Policy Change Workgroup, a team dedicated to the belief that when communities lead, policy becomes a pathway to real, measurable change.

This workgroup will prioritize necessary changes and mobilizing action to shift policies, funding, practices, and power structures, all with the goal of achieving improved cradle-to-career outcomes.

Led by parents and youth, and in collaboration with systems partners and local elected officials, we will identify and prioritize issues for RTFA’s advocacy agenda. Our aim is to secure wins and enhance funding and supports to move the needle on critical indicators for all of Rochester's children.

Following a successful launch with strong attendance from parents, youth, and key system partners, we are enthusiastic about continuing to pursue our shared community vision and impacting policy to ensure every child is supported and successful from cradle to career.

ROC the Future Alliance joins Senator Samra Brouk to announce new lactation pod to support nursing mothers

We joined Senator Samra Brouk to announce the opening of a new lactation pod at the Lincoln Branch of the Rochester Public Library, an initiative that underscores our commitment to supporting local families and improving maternal and infant health.

Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits for both babies and mothers. For infants, it provides optimal nutrition, strengthens the immune system, and reduces the risk of various illnesses.

This lactation pod was made possible by a $12,000 grant awarded to the Rochester Public Library. Public stations like this are vital for improving prenatal outcomes, offering mothers and families a safe and private space to nurse their babies.

A recent survey highlighted the need for such spaces, with 81% of parents reporting they have pumped or nursed in their cars, and two out of three indicating they would be more likely to visit locations with dedicated lactation facilities.

The opening of this lactation pod marks a significant step forward in expanding maternal care spaces within our community and beyond.

Save the Date: 13th Annual State of Our Children Address & Report Card Release 

Date: February 26, 2026

Time: 2PM - 4PM

Location: The Theater at Innovation Square, 131 Chestnut Street, Rochester, NY 14604