Why Care About Child Care? A recent study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis indicates that investing in early childhood is one of the best long-term public investments our state can make. Quality early childhood programs generate a 16 percent rate of return on investment, 12 percent of which is public return.  Research shows that children from low-income families in quality early childhood programs are less likely than their peers to: drop out of school, be in special education, repeat a grade, be arrested as juveniles, and need welfare benefits as adults What can I do to help the Caring for Kids Initiative carry out their mission? Spread the word about CFKI to family, friends and neighbors. Arrange a leadership meeting with your faith community, employer, school or organization. Make a tax deductible monetary contribution. Make a contribution to honor someone special to you. Celebrate a special occasion in their life and make a contribution in their name: birthday, retirement, Mother's Day, Father's Day - or any holiday Sponsor a child for a day, a week, a month or a year of childcare. Hold a fundraiser to raise awareness and funds for CFKI. Fundraising Ideas for Everyone Fundraising does not have to involve hours of planning or be a huge event.  It does not mean you have to raise large amounts of money.  Consider involving a group that you already belong to by collecting a free-will offering at one of your regular meetings.  Involve your children, relatives, friends and neighbors.