King County Executive Dow Constantine gave the State of the County address on Monday morning of this week. He repeatedly emphasized our community’s commitment to access for all and spoke of King County as a welcoming place where everyone belongs. In his words:
Our message to newcomers and old-timers alike is simple…….This is your community, this is your home.
You Belong Here.
This message echoes the values expressed across King County as our national politics grow increasingly challenging: all are welcome here. Executive Constantine’s words affirmed our collective commitment to standing alongside communities, families, and young people as we confront these challenges together:
Our kids are a shared responsibility. Schools and parents and neighbors and business, everybody – this is the challenge: To travel together this (sure to be arduous) journey.
Best Starts for Kids underscores this commitment to building a community where all people not only belong, but thrive. In the face of a shocking Federal budget proposal, albeit unsurprising in Executive Constantine’s view, the address spoke to the impact local funding through Best Starts is already having:
We want to ensure that every baby born in King County, every child raised here, has a strong start in life.
Best Starts for Kids funds what works – proven results and promising innovations. It makes the most of our investments.
As we enter Year Two of Best Starts for Kids, we’re connecting with new moms and dads as they become stronger parents; supporting teens with health programs in their schools; and preventing child homelessness by helping families at the margin stay in their homes.
As we launch Best Starts for Kids in these uncertain times, there is one thing we know: Best Starts will build upon the innovation, strength, and resilience of our communities to face the challenges ahead.
To listen to Executive Constantine’s remarks on Best Starts for Kids, begin viewing the video below at mark 14:43.