What is the Ahlquist Agenda?

At the Ahlquist Center, we focus on advocating for robust, antiracist, equitable policies and social supports that create social capital, economic mobility, and systems designed to ensure children, families, and communities thrive. 

In the center’s podcast, Ahlquist Agenda, we invite you to take an inside look at how we think about policy: why it matters, how it impacts youth, families, and communities, and what you can do to advance change. 

Meet our Ahlquist Agenda Host

Eric Mayo is the Public Policy Manager at Brightpoint, where he leads legislative advocacy work to advance systemic change in alignment with the organization’s Blueprint for Impact. Over the past few years, Eric has worked to make policy at the intersection of child welfare and early education and care, address access to driver’s license for foster youth, and support policies that support families in meeting their basic needs, included the expansion of Illinois’s Earned Income Credit, creating the State’s first ever child tax credit, and creating a diaper allowance for Illinois families. 

Prior to joining Children’s Home & Aid, Eric spent 3.5 years as a legislative aide in the New York State Legislature. He earned his undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and a Master’s Degree from the Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago.  

Listen to the Ahlquist Agenda

Learn More

Our Approach & Policy Agenda

The Ahlquist Center is to analyzes, develops, and changes policies, systems, and practices impacting children, youth, and families in Illinois and nationally to improve outcomes and support thriving.

Youth Budget Commission

The Youth Budget Commission brings together a diverse group of youth and young adult policy and practice professionals appointed by the Governor to examine the impact of the State’s budget on youth across Illinois. 

Our Projects

Brightpoint, through its Ahlquist Center for Policy, Practice, & Innovation, works with state government and partner organizations to develop and implement programs to enrich the lives of youth and families.

 

Coming Soon!

Get Involved

Learn how you can support Brightpoint through individual or company engagement opportunities!

Ways to Help

Donate Today

Make your gift today to support programs and services that help children and families thrive!