Graduate Strong is a network of community organizations together with early learning, higher education, and local school districts, working to ensure that all children and youth in our community have the capabilities, connections and credentials they need to flourish!

Many of the experiences and learning opportunities that shape a child's life occur outside of the classroom in our communities. Science tells us that children develop the capabilities they need to overcome challenges through connections with caring and competent adults.

Collaboration Instead of Competition

Graduate Strong is one of the five networks within Kitsap Strong. Kitsap Strong is the backbone agency working to create an environment in our community where agencies are supported and rewarded for collaboration and innovation.
When each agency in a community views the “problem” (mental health issues, substance use, homelessness, criminal behavior, chronic disease, educational attainment, etc.) through their own perspective... we have isolated impact.
Collective impact allows for the emergence of innovative ideas/solutions, when communities develop a common language, a shared understanding/perspective of the “problem”, and work together towards a shared goal.

Effective collaboration requires strong relationships and a process for coming together & learning.

Common Agenda

Improve the well-being and educational attainment of Kitsap residents, through a focus on empowerment and equity, the prevention of ACEs and the building of resilience.

Shared Measurements

By 2025…

A 10% decrease in the proportion of Kitsap County residents reporting three or more ACEs
A 20% increase in the percentage of adults in Kitsap County who report feeling socially and emotionally supported
A 20% increase in the percentage of children in Kitsap County reporting they have someone to turn to when feeling sad or hopeless about the future
A 10% increase in the percentage of children in Kitsap County reporting they live in a home with good family management
A 50% increase in post-secondary completion (certificate or degree) for Kitsap and North Mason students, through a focus on reducing gaps in equity and opportunity for historically marginalized students and young adults.

Continuous Communication

Creating a process and environment in our community where agencies can come together to discuss complex social issues - homelessness, intergenerational poverty, ACEs, mental health issues, substance use, criminal activity - and develop innovative solutions is hard work. We must all be patient while holding each other accountable.