(español)
Sign up below to join Parents Unite and ensure Congress hears directly from families about why Head Start matters. Together, we can protect and strengthen early learning for every child.
The Parents Unite campaign is a strategic, collaborative effort to increase and elevate Head Start parents who are taking action and raising their voices. The six-month campaign will culminate in Parents Unite April 2026, during which parents from across the nation will meet with their members of Congress to remind them that Head Start is essential–not only for Head Start families but for the nation’s future.
In April 2026, during the Parents Unite event, a select group of parents from across the country will travel to Washington, D.C. to meet with their congressional leaders. In concert with these meetings in D.C., the campaign will organize parents and caregivers in their own home states to meet with their U.S. Congressional Representatives at their local district offices. The goal is for every member of Congress to meet with Head Start parents in April 2026.
Parents Unite is NHSA working with state and regional associations to strengthen our parent leaders’ advocacy efforts.
More details about the campaign will be shared soon. This webpage will be updated regularly as the Parents Unite campaign moves forward.
We Need You! If you are interested in Parents Unite, please complete this form so we can keep you connected. There is a role for everyone in this campaign.
A Note on Our Name: After careful consideration, we proudly chose “Parents Unite” because of the powerful impact of the word “Parents.” We want to be clear: this movement is for ALL the amazing caregivers of Head Start children. Whether you’re a foster parent, grandparent, older sibling, or guardian, etc. your voice is essential. We welcome you. You are Parents Unite!
Parents Unite is a six-month, nationwide campaign from NHSA that empowers Head Start parents and caregivers to raise their voices, build advocacy skills, and connect with policymakers who shape the future of Head Start, including members of Congress and key state and local decision makers.
Head Start programs are navigating a challenging and uncertain policy environment. Many families face barriers that make engagement more difficult, including high turnover, community distrust, and behavioral health challenges.
Parents Unite reaffirms a core part of the Head Start model: parents are leaders, not just participants. Their voices are essential in shaping the future of the program and ensuring that policymakers understand its continued impact.
Parents Unite is open to all Head Start caregivers, including:
And Parents Unite needs friends to join and support the work.
To build a strong, connected national network of parent advocates; elevate parent voices; strengthen local relationships with policymakers; and ensure Head Start remains strong for future generations bylaying the foundation for ongoing local and national parent leadership beyond the campaign.
Parents will connect through state and regional networks, join virtual trainings, and take part in advocacy activities leading up to April 2026.
Two major events:
Sign up to get important email updates.
Parents are the most authentic, persuasive messengers about Head Start’s impact. By sharing their stories and experiences, parents help Congress understand why Head Start remains a vital investment in children, families, and communities. Their voices build momentum and protect the program for generations to come.
Parents Unite aims to create:
We expect there will be 200+ participants in DC.
NHSA is asking Associations (State, Regional and National) to take the lead in selecting their representatives.
NHSA is paying for travel, and lodging. Parents and staff will need per diem from their programs to pay for food.
The Kellogg Center at Gallaudet University.
Parents Unite Launch Presentation (Slide Deck) — PPT | PDF
Printable Flyer – English — PDF | Word | Google Doc
Printable Flyer – Spanish — PDF | Word | Google Doc