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Policy Framework

CMF’s advocacy efforts are prioritized and guided by five policy domains: Education, Economic Prosperity, Health, Civic Engagement and Health of the Sector, and our member-informed Building an Equitable Future Together policy framework. The Health of the Sector is foundational to the advocacy work and ensures philanthropy has the resources, operational support and flexibility to meet the needs of its communities. Below are the expanded principles explaining each domain. 

CMF is committed to supporting the advancement of equitable education policies, systems and programs along the P-20 continuum that ensure every child and young adult across the state of Michigan, regardless of their race, socioeconomic status, address or disability status has the resources to achieve at their highest potential.

A strong and inclusive economy is made possible by equitable access to its resources and opportunities. CMF supports policies, programs and partnerships that address structural and systemic barriers to economic opportunity and ensure economic prosperity is accessible to all Michiganders.

High-quality health infrastructure and equitable access to healthcare, healthy food and other health resources are essential to the well-being of Michigan families. CMF supports work to improve social and environmental determinants of health through multiple approaches to contribute to better health outcomes for Michiganders. 

An active and engaged citizenry is essential for the health and advancement of our democracy. CMF supports policies, programs and partnerships that support the active engagement and participation of Michiganders in civil society. 

CMF is committed to ensuring the integrity, health and stability of the charitable sector. We will support policies in alignment with our biennially reviewed Government Relations Goals that enhance the resources, operational capacity and flexibility the sector needs to continue serving society’s needs. 

Policy Priorities

The GRPPC provided strategic guidance to staff to prioritize seven timely policy priorities. These policy priorities are outlined in the bullet points below. 

  • Ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines so that vulnerable populations and impacted communities are prioritized.
  • Prioritize state-supported behavioral health services. This includes mental health supports for parents and adult caregivers who continue to feel the long-term impacts of the pandemic and social-emotional supports for children.
  • Address the digital divide.
  • Preserve and grow childcare slots and subsidies for families with low incomes. This includes flexibilities to ensure innovative use of federal funds to grow quality childcare slots, increase provider reimbursement rates, and emphasize the importance of licensed home programs.
  • Provide high-quality after-school and extended learning time options for families beyond the school day—including wraparound services that target under-resourced populations with limited options.
  • Support frontline workers (including community health workers, childcare providers, teachers, etc.).
  • Help stabilize small businesses and nonprofits (including MWBEs and nonprofits led by people of color).

Advancing Change Through Advocacy

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