Early Support. Lifelong Impact.

Early Matters Fresno brings together early childhood leaders across Fresno to collaborate, share evidence, and streamline community supports so that we can better improve the lives of Fresno’s families with young children ages 0-5.

Early Support. Lifelong Impact

Early Matters Fresno brings together early childhood leaders across Fresno to collaborate, share evidence, and streamline community supports so that we can better improve the lives of Fresno’s families with young children ages 0-5.

Fresno’s Future, Built Together

It takes more than good intentions to move the needle—it takes partnership. Early Matters Fresno is powered by over 50 organizations committed to working across systems to create real, lasting change.

Our Vision

A Fresno County Where All Families with Young Children Thrive

Fresno is a beacon of possibility and hope for families and young children. We are a model county where strategic investments in early childhood development reduce pre-term births, ensure kindergarten readiness, and foster success in third-grade reading and math.

Where We Are Today

children on the path to economic mobility
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Our 2035 Goal

children on the path to economic mobility
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Our Mission

Our coalition brings together early childhood leaders across Fresno to collaborate, share evidence, and streamline community supports so that we can better improve the lives of Fresno’s families with young children ages 0-5.

Our Values

At Early Matters Fresno, our values shape not only how we work—but why. These guiding principles help us navigate complex systems, build trust across sectors, and stay grounded in what matters most: Fresno families.

Collaboration & Coordination

We bring together cross-sector partners to align efforts and amplify impact.

Community

We root our strategies in the lived experiences and cultural strengths of Fresno families.

Connection

We pursue data-informed, forward-thinking solutions that address long-standing inequities.

Innovation

We honor diverse voices and invite coalition members to learn from one another.

Perspectives

We create spaces where all families feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Our Beliefs

What We Stand For

Our beliefs reflect our shared understanding of what drives real, lasting change for children and families. These are the truths that unite our coalition and fuel our work.

We believe when we take care of some, we all benefit.
We believe when we have space to share and understand, our county will reap the benefits of collaboration.
We believe several key initiatives work collectively to build a strong start for young children.
We believe data-backed insights and recommendations enable us to effectively and responsively serve our community.
We believe early childhood can not be political—it’s about securing our city’s future.
We believe that a child’s earliest years (age 0-5) present a window of opportunity to make a difference, and that this difference can be felt among young children, their families, and the community.

Our Policy Priorities

We advocate for smart, bipartisan policies that make a measurable difference in the lives of families with young children. Our top priorities include:

Strengthening the early childhood workforce
Increasing access to prenatal and infant care
Advancing economic policies that support family stability