FK-client Sesame Workshop Awarded $100 Million 100& Change Grant by MacArthur Foundation

Friedman Kaplan’s longstanding client, Sesame Workshop, along with International Rescue Committee, has been awarded the MacArthur Foundation’s 100&Change grant of $100 million towards their ongoing work educating refugee children displaced by violence and persecution in Syria and the Middle East.

Sesame Workshop and IRC’s work represents the largest early childhood intervention program ever created in a humanitarian setting, and will seek to address the "toxic stress" experienced by children in the Syrian response region to improve their learning outcomes today and their intellectual and emotional development over the long term.  

"The Syrian refugee crisis is the humanitarian issue of our time and we are deeply grateful for this incredible opportunity," said Jeffrey D. Dunn, President & CEO of Sesame Workshop. "For almost 50 years, Sesame has worked around the world to improve the lives of children and help them to grow smarter, stronger and kinder. This may be our most important initiative ever and we are humbled by the trust and confidence that has been placed in us. These children are, arguably, the world's most vulnerable and by improving their lives we create a more stable and secure world for us all."

Friedman Kaplan partner Mary Mulligan and associate Jennifer Mustes are proud to have provided Sesame Workshop pro bono counsel in connection with this initiative.