Science and common sense are clear— the early years of a child’s life set the foundation for health, learning, and behavior. Every child should have early opportunities that help them thrive. Every step towards this goal counts.
The Early Opportunities Initiative was inspired by people around the world working to make a difference for young children, families and communities. The Story of the Hummingbird as told by Professor Wangari Maathai, environmental activist, women’s rights advocate, and 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, illustrates the power of individual action.
Early Opportunities was founded in 2011 by Joan Lombardi, PhD. as an advisory service to philanthropy both internationally and in the United States, with a focus on young children, families and the communities that support them. In 2022, Joan launched the Early Opportunities Initiative. Read more about Joan and the Initiative on our About page.
Speaking Of Children
Speaking of Children is a series of blogs that highlight both current issues facing young children and families around the world and local solutions that are making a difference to help children and families thrive.
Microgreen Grants
Early Opportunities Microgreen Grants seed small-scale research on climate issues facing young children and families and support advocacy efforts focused on climate and environmental justice.
Environment & Climate
This section includes resources from all over the world that focus on the impact of climate change on children and how communities are taking action. The resources linked here are updated on an ongoing basis.
“You cannot be afraid to speak up and speak out for what you believe. You have to have courage, raw courage.”
— John Lewis