Since its inception, the Child Care Association has played a major role in the area of advocacy. In fulfilling this role, the Association:

	Speaks on behalf of the organizations it represents and the children and families they serve in working with: the Department of Children and Family Services the Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities the State Board of Education;
	Works for the inclusion of adequate funding for the full range of children's services in the Illinois State budget;
	Educates state and national policy makers and the general public concerning the needs of troubled children, youth, and families;
	Promotes a cooperative, working relationship between public and voluntary providers of children's services;
	Introduces, promotes, and monitors legislation to further the interests of children and their families;
	Works to insure the development of policies, rules, and regulations at all governmental levels which reflect the best interests of children and families;
	Negotiates reasonable and appropriate rates for services;
	Encourages the development and utilization of a strong voluntary, not-for-profit sector in the provision of children's services in Illinois.