Building the Power of Parents
COFI trains parents to be powerful leaders and COFI-trained parents accomplish great things.
COFI strengthens the power and voice of low-income families in all areas of civic life—from local institutions and communities to state and federal policy arenas.
Trained 6,415 parents
in Illinois and across the nation in more than 50 communities at hundreds of school and community sites
Reinstated recess
for 266,000+ elementary school students
Rewrote the Student Code of Conduct
Reformed Chicago municipal fees and fines
eliminating 13,731 tickets and reducing $5.2 million in debt
Expanded SNAP benefits
Knocked on 44,341 doors
The COFI Way
A proven, family-focused organizing model for how people who are outside the centers of power become leaders, build organizations, and win.
Self, Family & Team + Team Building
Leadership begins from within. It starts with a parent’s personal, family, and community goals.
Community Outreach & Action
Policy & Systems Change
Uniting parents across race and community to work with decision-makers to make real and lasting policy and systems change.
How We Do It
Get Training
We’ll share what we’ve learned about building parents’ power so you can incorporate The COFI Way into your own efforts.
COFI Center for Action and Learning
Our hands-on, practical workshops are designed specifically for community organizers, social service providers, school administrators, advocates, policymakers, and veteran parent leaders around the country.
Learn More →
Meet The Parents
Their inspiring stories of passion, persistence, and courage are the heart of COFI.
Testimonials
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What’s Happening
Get the latest news on campaigns, victories, and events.
NEWS
New COFI Report Shines a Light on Parent-Led Policy Recommendations About the Mental Health System
Sept 26, 2024
We’re Glad You Asked!
February 21, 2024
COFI CENTER
Introduction to The COFI Way (Virtual)
Feb 25, 2025