Last week, the early childhood field lost one of its fiercest champions with the death of Jacklyn (Jackie) Bezos. Jackie’s devotion to children’s development, her melding of heart and action, and her fearless embrace of life’s challenges reflect values that inspire us at Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) every day. In light of her passing, we honor Jackie’s legacy in her commitment to early learning and support of CCAoA’s mission.
As a co-founder of the Bezos Family Foundation, Jackie dedicated her life to early childhood and youth development. In 2018, at our 30th Anniversary Gala, CCAoA honored Jackie and Mike Bezos for their deep commitment to the early learning field. The Children’s Champion Award in philanthropy celebrated Jackie and Mike’s efforts through the Bezos Family Foundation, and programs like Vroom®, which takes early brain science out of the lab and puts it in the hands of caregivers and empowers parents to support their child’s brain development.
CCAoA has been a key partner in integrating Vroom into its nationwide Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network to broaden its reach and impact. Vroom® translates the latest advances in brain science into easy, free, practical tips that enable families and child care providers to turn everyday moments into Brain-Building Moments®. The Bezos Family Foundation has been a longtime supporter of CCAoA’s initiatives, and Jackie’s commitment to early childhood will continue in our work toward an affordable and accessible child care system.
We take this time to remember Jackie’s commitment to ensuring access and opportunity in early care and learning. The Bezos family has asked mourners to honor her memory through charitable acts, echoing Jackie’s lifelong belief in the power of kindness and care. Learn more about Jackie’s life, work, and commitment to giving here.
