The Great Start Collaborative-Oakland is the decision making body for the Great Start system at the local level.

The core responsibilities of the GSC-O include:

• Conduct a community needs assessment
  
• Adopt and enact a strategic plan for the development of a comprehensive system of early childhood services and supports, accessible to all children from birth to kindergarten and their families.
  
• Seek additional public and private funds to support the Great Start system locally.
  
• Provide a defined and accountable set of resources and services for children with disabilities, developmental delays, or special needs, or at risk of same, and their families.
  
• Coordinate existing early childhood programs.
  
• Expand high-quality child care capacity.
  
• Evaluate the system on the basis of expected outcomes.
  
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• Engage parents, schools, businesses, faith-based organizations, and other community entities in the planning, implementation, and coordination of services for families with young children.
  
• Promote community awareness of early childhood issues.
  
• Advocate for quality early childhood programs and services.