Voices of Tomorrow

Culturally Responsive Early Learning Programs: Provided Culturally and linguistically responsive early learning programs to over 950 children in the last fiscal year. These programs were designed to met the unique needs of immigrant and refugee families, particularly East African communities. Through our culturally centered centered curriculum, we supported early childhood development, school readiness, and family engagement.Additionally we offered training and resources to early learning providers on cultural competence and best practices, fostering a stronger, more inclusive early learning network. 95% of children in our program demonstrated significant progress in literacy, and socio-emotional development, as measured by developmental assessments.85% of of families reported increased involvement in their children's education and felt more confident navigating the system

Policy and Systems Change Advocacy- BSK : Focused on policy and systems change work to ensure that early learning policies reflect the needs of of marginalized communities. Successfully mobilized community members and early learning providers to participate in lobbying efforts and meetings with decisionmakers,resulting in progress toward critical policy objectives such as increased funding for bilingual early learning programs and more comprehensive health and safety standards for preschool environments. Organized 3 advocacy training programs, preparing over 40 community members to engage with policymakers and advocate for their communities. Played a key role in securing local funding that will expand access to culturally responsive early learning programs by 15% over the next two years.

Family Support and Advocacy Services-DCYF ECEAP and SPP:Expanded its family support services, including health and safety education, transportation assistance, and advocacy for equitable access to preschool and early early education. In response to the growing needs of families during and post-pandemic, we partnered with local health organizations to provide critical information about health protocols and child safety, directly benefiting over 200 families. Also helped families advocate for their children's educational rights through workshops, one-on-one consultations, and direct support with school enrollments. Over 150 families accessed transportation services to ensure their children could attend preschool regularly. Trained 50 parents in advocacy skills, leading to successful engagements with school districts and local policymakers.