Although Florida law allows local communities to approve a referendum to establish Children’s Services Councils, obtaining approval from voters to increase property taxes to pay for the councils was challenging. Miami-Dade failed to win approval for the initiative in 1988. At that time, the funds would assist only children from low-income families.

When supporters tried again in 2002, they applied lessons learned from the earlier attempt. They broadened the purpose to serve all children in the county, orchestrated a well-organized and strategic campaign team supported by a fundraising effort and included a sunset provision, which meant that voters would have a chance to reauthorize the funding in 2008. It passed.

In 2008, there was concern that voters might reject reauthorizing the Children’s Trust as part of an anti-tax sentiment as a result of the recession. A broad-based coalition including business leaders, religious leaders, and leaders within each of the ethnic communities was critical in diffusing opposition and building support among voters. To keep the operation of the Children’s Trust separate from the campaign, the Children’s Trust Political Committee was created. The initiative passed again and is up for reauthorization in 2020.