Dear John, 

We have some exciting news to share, and we wanted our supporters like you to be the first to know! We are rebranding the Ounce of Prevention Fund to Start Early. Today, more than ever, there has been an unprecedented need for quality early learning experiences for all families—especially those in under-resourced communities. Now is the time to launch a new brand that better articulates our mission and amplifies the issue to create urgency among the public.

Our new name, Start Early, along with our new logo and tagline, Champions for Early Learning, focuses on the idea that starting early and nurturing the attachments between children and adults are essential to a child’s present and future well-being. This belief always has and always will be part of our DNA. While our look may be changing, we remain dedicated to advancing our mission and inspiring others to support the children and families we serve.

For nearly 40 years, the Ounce has delivered best-in-class doula, home visiting, Early Head Start and Head Start programs and has advocated for thoughtful policies and adequate funding at local, state and federal levels. From our roots directly serving families and children on Chicago’s South Side and in rural Illinois, we have expanded to impact programs and policies nationwide. 

Over the past few months, the COVID-19 pandemic has re-exposed the lasting impact of historical and institutional racism, and it has illuminated the injustices that have existed in our country for generations. The deep-rooted trauma of discrimination and inequity is still evident today as COVID-19 deaths impact people of color at significantly higher rates, often due to the underlying health conditions and lack of access to quality health care in communities being under-resourced.

We know quality early childhood experiences are the solution to overcoming many of these inequities, helping to level the playing field and allowing children to thrive. Yet, many programs and supports for young children and families are in jeopardy. Providers of early childhood education and care have been devastated by the challenges and dire circumstances created by this health crisis.

We are confident that now is the right time for us to rebrand – raising the profile of early learning and care across the U.S. and expanding our reach and impact. In the coming weeks, the Ounce will transition to Start Early, and we will be sharing ways you can help get involved. 

I am excited as we begin this new chapter of our organization, and so appreciate your support and dedication to helping our youngest learners. 

All the best, Diana