For the Poarch Creek Indians and VOICES for Alabama’s Children, supporting Alabama’s children begins with a shared belief in a “whole child” approach that recognizes children need more than just academic instruction to succeed.

“The partnership between the Poarch Creek Indians and VOICES supports the “whole child” approach by investing in programs that address children’s academic, social-emotional, physical, and developmental needs while also providing strategies for strengthening families and communities,” said Dr. Tracye Cutts Strichik, the Executive Director of VOICES for Alabama’s Children.

The collaborative effort between Poarch and VOICES began in 2025 and has already had a significant impact on children by expanding and enriching learning programs for children across Alabama. Additionally, because it is focused on the “whole child” approach, the partnership has been able to provide reliable data about children’s well-being to organizations in their local communities which can be used to inform new approaches to problem-solving.

Stephanie A. Bryan, Tribal Chair & CEO, Poarch Creek Indians noted that, “The commitment we have made to partner with VOICES is one that we believe will have a real and lasting impact on our state’s children, their families and our communities. Our shared belief that addressing the needs of the “whole child” takes into consideration every aspect of what a child needs to become a success academically. It also works to ensure our children have the support they need to grow into physically and emotionally healthy young adults by providing communities with critically important information.  It is a visionary approach that we are proud to support.”

How the Partnership Works

Through its support of VOICES for Alabama’s Children and the Alabama Expanded Learning Alliance (AELA), the Poarch Creek Indians help strengthen opportunities for children and youth across Alabama.

AELA works to expand access to high-quality after school care to school-age children, summer learning programs, and professional development and high-quality resources for teachers that include quality improvement supports, STEM resources, leadership development training, and statewide technical assistance. These efforts help ensure that young people have access to safe, enriching learning environments that foster academic achievement, develop leadership skills, and create pathways for future success while strengthening communities throughout Alabama.

Data That Informs Decisions

For more than 30 years, VOICES for Alabama’s Children has published the Alabama Kids Count Data Book, which draws from records of various state agencies, as well as U.S. Census data, to give communities a clear, county-by-county picture of how children are faring. The Poarch Creek Indians’ investment in this work reflects a shared belief that good decisions for children start with honest information informed by accurate data.

Poarch’s Commitment to Education: A Perspective Grounded in Culture and Community

At home in Atmore, the Tribe has made significant investments in early childhood education and enriched learning programs. The value of tribal identity, family connections, and belonging to a community shape the learning environment in ways that feel natural and deeply-rooted.

“I fervently believe that our children are our greatest responsibility and our greatest hope. The partnership we have with VOICES for Alabama’s Children brings real-life opportunities for learning, living and growth, for Poarch Creek children and children across Alabama,” said Bryan.

“As their partner, we have seen first-hand the deep commitment the Poarch Creek Indians have made to their community and to preserving their culture. The long-term investment they have made in children and families is creating a meaningful impact beyond their immediate community,” said Strichik.

Voices and the Tribe: A Shared Commitment to Alabama’s Children and to Continuing Support

At the heart of this partnership is a shared belief that supporting children requires collaboration and continuity. No single organization can meet every need facing young people. But, through their collaborative efforts, the Poarch Creek Indians and VOICES for Alabama’s Children create opportunities that reach farther and last longer.

Both organizations are committed to sustaining and growing the work they have begun.  The Poarch Creek Indians and VOICES for Alabama’s Children are exploring ways to expand STEM programs and youth leadership development initiatives. The partnership is also focused on fostering greater family engagement and encouraging localities to make data-informed decisions about children’s well-being.

That potential for growth underscores what this partnership is working towards; stronger educational outcomes, stronger communities, and stronger futures for Alabama’s children.