Deaconess Foundation envisions a community that values the health and well-being of all children and gives priority attention to the most vulnerable. This community only thrives if the allocation of power and distribution of resources, benefits, opportunities and burdens are not predictable by, nor predicated on race.
Health Care
All children of the St. Louis region should have universal access to comprehensive mental, physical and dental care, supported by a trauma informed care approach, a network of school-based health centers and the benefits of Medicaid expansion.
Economic Mobility
Families in the St. Louis region should be able to achieve economic stability within one generation in an environment marked by fair chance employment practices, family-supporting wages and asset-building supports.
Justice and Equity
All children of the St. Louis region should receive just treatment under the law, with specific emphasis on contact with the state’s systems for juvenile justice and foster and adoptive care.
Early Childhood Education
All children of the St. Louis region should enjoy full access to quality early childhood care and education from birth to Pre-Kindergarten.
Building Power for Our Children
There are gaps in civic infrastructure and capacity that inhibit Deaconess’ vision for St. Louis’ children which include:
1
democratic access and participation of historically under-represented, affected communities
2
family voice in economic development supporting asset-building through affordable housing
3
racial equity and inclusive leadership in the social sector
We know grantmaking alone will not create the conditions for our children to thrive. Thus, we have committed to institutional advocacy and building new platforms for engagement to complement our community investments. Our hope is that this evolution will better serve a wider movement for children and youth in the St. Louis region through strengthening partnership, leveraging platforms, and building power.