A collaborative effort among agencies, family members, local businesses, and health care services, to improve the lives of babies and young children.

Brings together the community to discuss and address the needs of families with very young children, and, through this collaborative effort, helps to insure that all children have the same opportunities to succeed.

Statewide professional development support system designed to provide guidance, encouragement, and recognition to individuals and programs serving children, youth, and families. Resources and services provided by Gateways to Opportunity include:

- Credentials.

- Professional Development Advisors.

- Great START.

- Gateways to Opportunity Registry.

- Illinois Trainers Network.

- Gateways to Opportunity Scholarship Program.

- Online Training.

- Job Board.

- Child Care Restoration Grants.

- Child Care Workforce Bonus.

- Strengthen and Grow Childcare Grants.

Provides programs for families involved in the child welfare system or in crisis that need encouragement while they change their lives. Services include advocacy, mentoring, mediation, alternative counseling, workshops, outreach and 3rd party visits.

Also provides group sessions and trainings.

Offers to empower, support and advocate for foster, adoptive and kinship families across Iowa. IFAPA provides support, training and resources to promote safety, permanency and well-being for Iowa's children. Information and referrals are provided as well as parenting materials and skills classes. This is a private, non-profit organization. This is an affiliate of the National Foster Parents Association.