ECFC Grantee Partner
OLÉ
OLÉ is a non-profit, grassroots member organization of working families. Since 2009, our members and staff have worked together to strengthen our communities using issue-based campaigns and electoral engagement to ensure that working families are playing a critical role in shaping New Mexico’s future with a united voice. By centering the experiences of people of color, early educators, parents, workers and Immigrants, OLÉ creates a space for people to grow their leadership and create lasting change in New Mexico.
Location:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Focus Area:
Issue based campaigns, electoral engagement, and quality childcare
Grantee Partner Since:
2019
Website:
https://olenm.org/
Social Media:
Other Funders
Kellogg, Children's Funding Project, Ballmer, Imaginable Futures
Highlights
Organizers in the Land of Enchantment (OLÉ) in New Mexico set a goal over 12 years ago to codify a right to child care in the state constitution. They also identified a source of funding: a Land Grant that oil and gas businesses in the state pay into and that helps to fund public education for K-12. Over the course of a steadfast 12-year campaign, they worked alongside parents and early educators to build power and leadership, and grow a network of like-minded organizers and advocates. Their strategy included winning permission from the state legislature to take the measure to ballot, as well as knocking on 500,000 doors to talk to voters about the amendment. In November 2022, their efforts reached fruition when it passed with over 70% approval. This secured $150 million annually for the early care and education budget.
