Get Involved

WCG Think Tank Organizational Structure

The “Think Tank Core Group” is made up of the founders, long-standing active organizers, and individuals who have a passion for and expertise in the areas of need. Core Group members must demonstrate a willingness to assist in sustaining WGCMD by participating on a “regular basis”, contributing to the vision, mission, values and “outputs” of WCGMD. They agree to contribute at least $50 per year.

This group meets on a regular basis to:

• Develop a deep understanding of the Blueprint and related issues

• Identify and research related topics and areas 

• Emphasize the systemness in implementing the Blueprint to operate as a unified entity rather than fragmented, independent units; systemness includes how other systems such as transportation, housing, health care access and food insecurity impact the Blueprint

• Ensure equity is infused throughout the work of WCG

• Plan articles, editorials, letters and testimonies

• Provide content for the website, publications and presentations

• Strategize and support the organizational structure of WCG

• Identify and recommend invitees, especially those to fill critical needs

“Affiliate Members”of WCGMD become a part of a community of advocates for the successful implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. They are supporters who have benefits and obligations as advocates of the Blueprint in alignment with WCGMD.

Among the benefits of being an Affiliate Member are:

• Emotional satisfaction of contributing to the impact of the Blueprint on all of Maryland’s children

• Get up-to-date information about Blueprint related public events, hearings, legislation, and related activities.

• Network with entities such as advocates, supporters, researchers, legislators, and lobbyists

• Attend and represent WCGMD in public meetings, activities, hearings, and events

• Introduce WCGMD to colleagues, friends, family, & networks

• Use connections to open doors for partnerships & support

• Share your related campaigns, events, testimonials and stories

Among the obligations of being an Affiliate Member are:

• Pay annual membership dues

• Attend meetings (weekly, monthly, annually, and/or special)

• Engage with WCGMD on actions including hearings, related community and public events and initiatives

• Follow the WCGMD Code of Conduct

To get involved now:

The following provides information about areas we are currently focusing our passions and skills:

• Early Childhood Education, especially prebirth to 3

• School Culture & Community Support

• Workforce Development

• Advocacy

If you think your skills and interests could be useful in addressing any of these areas, please complete the form at the bottom of this page and provide any information you would like in the “I would like to” section of the form. Tthe following information is provided to help you determine where you might “fit in.”

Early Childhood, especially prebirth to 3

The key to lifelong learning, which is required in the 21st Century, is what happens pre-birth to kindergarten. We have an emphasis on this vital time in life. Here are some specific actions to consider if you want to be helpful with our Early Childhood work.

• Learn more about Early Childhood issues in your county and in Maryland;

• Visit or volunteer at a Patty Center or Judy Center

• Attend Early Childhood workshops and conferences

• Promote reading and other kindergarten readiness activities

• Advocate for businesses to establish on-site or nearby child care facilities or provide childcare subsidies or scholarships for employees

School Culture & Community Support

Real success of the Blueprint means we can no longer do the same things we have already done. We need widespread, system changes that pay attention to all of the factors that influence whether students are able to experience successful outcomes. Community Schools provide wraparound services for students and their families; they reach beyond the academics and address social, emotional, health and other basic needs.

We are encouraged by the accomplishments of Restorative Schools that “foster a positive and just learning and teaching environment where everyone feels safe, empowered and like they belong.” There are too few of these schools but the success of those that do exist make us strong promoters of them. Attendance is high; parents are involved and support the school; there is low teacher turnover; student achievement is higher.

Here are some specific actions to consider if you want to be helpful in this area.

• Find out about the Community Schools in your local school district

• Volunteer at a local Community School

• Become aware of the nearest Restorative Schools

• Visit the school

• Volunteer at the school

Workforce Development

Included in the Blueprint plan is students will be ready in high school to begin preparation for their next step, to attend college or pursue a career. Advanced Placement classes and dual enrollment in high school and community college are two steps towards being prepared for college. To prepare for a career, students need to be aware of possible career choices and then of the requirements to enter the career of their choosing. They may need to enter a technical school or become an apprentice or intern.

Here are some specific actions to consider if you want to be helpful with our Workforce Development efforts.

• Become aware of/promote awareness about county career programs

• Become aware of employment opportunities and the necessary preparation to take advantage of these opportunities

• Mentor students about career and college preparation

• Encourage business participation in Workforce activities

• Offer/sponsor Internships or apprenticeships

Advocacy

The Actions listed below are ways to actively support and publicize each of the above areas. To advocate and encourage participation in support of the full implementation of the Blueprint,

• Learn about:

  • WCGMD and other similar organizations

  • The issues, best practices, related legislation, etc.

  • How your local school district is implementing the Blueprint

• Attend:

  • School Board Meetings

  • Legislative committee and/or subcommitee hearings

  • State and local workshops of relevance

• Write letters and/or make phone calls: to public officials, media outlets, related businesses and organizations

• Testify, present

• Meet with your State Delegates and Senators

• Donate to WCGMD

• Specialty volunteers are needed to assist with:

  • Social media presence and website

  • Press Conference planning to communicate important findings and planned actions

  • Clerical and logistics