Looking Ahead

This year’s results show us several important things to focus on next.

Leadership programs are working.

Partners, AiM, LAEDS, and scholarships are building real skills and confidence. Participants are getting better at speaking up for themselves, leadership, and problem solving. We want to keep these programs strong and find ways to reach more young people and underrepresented communities.

Plain-language, people-centered policy work is essential.

When we track policies, listen to people’s real experiences, and explain things clearly, we see real changes. This includes better program communication to families, stronger welcome materials, and new service definitions for some of Tennessee’s most complex systems.

Tennesseans are listening and acting on the information we share.

People trust us, understand the content we share, and many people take action after seeing what we share. This shows that our investment in storytelling, making information accessible, and building partnerships is working.

As we continue our work in fiscal year 2026, Council members will continue to help us consider important questions:

• What should we keep doing because it clearly makes a difference?
• What should we change or stop doing to better serve Tennesseans?
• Where are we not reaching people who need us most?