IL BEGIN supported the development of the Blueprint through a public–private partnership. Members resourced the drafting of the report, participated in review, and championed meaningful community input so the recommendations reflect on-the-ground realities and systems change goals. The Blueprint was launched by the Governor and will now be followed by a multi-stakeholder strategy-building in 2026.

To expand who is “in the room,” IL BEGIN is providing travel grants for community leaders to attend the Illinois Maternal Health Summit (November 18–19, Illinois State University), IDPH’s flagship, multi-stakeholder convening. Travel grants prioritize leaders delivering direct services and leading advocacy across the state, ensuring community-based organizations have a seat at statewide tables where priorities are set and partnerships are formed.

lL BEGIN is partnering with AMPT to conduct a needs assessment focused on the technical assistance and supports community-based organizations working across reproductive justice, birth equity, and early childhood require. The assessment will identify priority capacity-building needs and practical, cross-issue supports to strengthen organizations serving families in Illinois.

The Collaborative hosts regular learning sessions with state partners such as IDEC, IDPH, and other HHS agencies and with community leaders across Illinois. We listen together for what’s working, where systems are still siloed, and how cross-issue implementation is playing out on the ground. These conversations help funders see the full picture and think about how to resource integrated, community-anchored solutions across RJ, BE, and PN–3.