Month of the Young Child® Doll Project Purpose The Doll Project, which originated with the Colorado Children's Coalition, is designed to help call attention to the needs and the rights of young children and their families, The cardboard dolls are made by volunteers to represent children who are being appropriately served and those who are not receiving the health, education, safety and nurturing that they need to thrive. The completed dolls are to be placed in prominent places in Michigan communities throughout the state. The intent is to influence community and business leaders, politicians and the public at large to invest in Michigan's children in the form of community-based, long-term prevention strategies and programs for children and their families. You may use the suggestions included in this information to get started, or develop and design your own doll(s). Please write a short story to accompany each doll. True stories are often the most poignant: please do not use the actual names of the people involved. Once you have completed your doll(s): Leave your doll in a prominent place in your home. Talk with friends and neighbors about how they can make a difference in the life of a child. Take your doll to your workplace. Encourage colleagues to get involved. Provide them with information about local MOYC® activities. Take your doll to your place of worship. Encourage others to support programs and legislation which benefit children and families. Attend a candidates forum with your doll. Ask candidates how they are addressing children's issues. Make arrangements for dolls to be displayed in prominent places within your community. Grocery stores, restaurants, local businesses, place of worship, workplaces, local government offices, libraries, pediatricians offices, schools and community centers are a few ideas; the possibilities are endless! Organize a doll-making party. Spread the word to neighbors, schools, youth groups, senior centers, community organizations, religious groups, etc. Volunteer to help with local MOYC activities by coordinating doll-making, assisting with distribution and helping with publicity. Thank you for your efforts on behalf of children and families. For more information contact Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children at 517-336-9700 or 1-800-336-6424.