The Family Development Program is rooted in a history and a framework of equity, social justice and civic engagement. With a deep understanding of how poverty limits access to resources and ultimately holds children back from reaching their full potential, we have focused on developing strong partnerships with families and community groups to address educational success for vulnerable children. The Family Development Program considers knowledge as power, and so we have targeted our efforts to ensuring that families have access to the same early childhood development educational supports as educators and other professionals. We know that family advocacy is essential for school reform and overall community progress. The Family Development Program believes that when parents are equipped with knowledge, parents know what is best for their children. Families are the most important advisors and advocates for lasting social change.