About Us
The Thrive Coalition is a community of more than 40 independent organizations and individuals dedicated to optimizing U.S. support for global early childhood development.
Our Vision
The U.S. government supports an integrated global agenda for young children, ensuring that every child (ages 0-8) has the conditions to survive and thrive through healthy growth, quality nutrition, nurturing family-based care, inclusive development and learning, and protection from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect.
Studies have shown that each additional U.S. dollar invested in ECD programs can yield a return of between $6 and $17.
Lack of access to quality health services, nutrition, and cognitive stimulation during the early years can harm a child's long-term health and development.
In contrast, investments in inclusive early childhood development (ECD) interventions are cost-effective, produce high economic returns, and are more impactful than ‘catch up’ programs later in life. ECD programs can have long-term positive impacts on individuals and societies, increasing productivity and health and reducing poverty and inequality.
The Thrive Coalition makes the case for U.S. government investment in global ECD through direct advocacy, strategic engagement, and close coordination. We provide a forum for discussion, consensus building, coordination, learning, strategy, and advocacy on issues related to global ECD. Learn more about the case for ECD and how the Coalition works to make change.
“Nurturing care is about promoting positive, loving connections and interactions in the earliest years to help young children survive and thrive.
Henrietta H. Fore
UNICEF Executive Director
Photo credit: Jake Lyell for Catholic Relief Services