Shelley: Wonderful to have time with you, Spiffy! There is growing interest in investing in the early years—and for good reason. Children with high-quality early experiences do better in school, earn more income over their lifetimes, and enjoy better health. Furthermore, their parents are more secure in employment, and their families are more stable. That’s why for decades my colleagues and I have developed and implemented programs that meet children’s needs and support the grown-ups in their lives. Two of our signature programs are Start Right Now, which uses interactive audio instruction to link health, education, and workforce development, and First 10.
Jaimie: Hi Spiffy, thanks for having me! Our mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We work every day to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to lead that healthy life. We take science and turn it into tools, resources, and guidelines to ensure communities across the country are leading heart and brain healthy lives. Our organization is addressing equitable health in our local communities to improve blood pressure rates, ensure access to healthy affordable foods, address mental well-being, eliminate tobacco and vaping, combat gender disparities and the unique risk factors that affect women, and equip our community with what they need to save a life such as access to Hands Only CPR education and training.
David: Honored to be here, Spiffy, thanks for the invite! The White House Historical Association has decided to make civics and history education a top priority. The White House, as an institution, is a unifying symbol for the American people and the Association is well-positioned to address the division and polarization that we witness in America. Telling the history of the White House reminds all Americans of our shared identity and establishes community through patriotism. Additionally, civics education helps people understand our institutions and their role in a democracy. An understanding of the civic and political processes strengthens them by creating trust and encouraging participation.
