United Way of Central Alabama supports early childhood development and education, because
all children deserve the tools for success
Studies show that 90% of brain development occurs during a child’s first five years of life. On average across our six counties, however, we have fewer than five childcare centers for every 1,000 children within that age group.
We work to address this disparity and improve outcomes for children by increasing the capacity of childcare centers, working directly with business owners and professionals to improve the quality of childcare, teaching parenting classes, providing stable housing for families experiencing homelessness and much more.
Early Childhood Development & Education News Spotlight:
-
Opening Soon: Grant Applications Aimed at Expanding Early Learning Centers
Across Central Alabama, there are fewer than five childcare centers for every 1,000 children age 5 and under. United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) Bold Goals Coalition is working to change that.
Our Early Childhood Development & Education Impact
8,834
children ages 5 and younger received early education or development services in 2023
7,123
Children ages 0 to 5 participated in early education and care programs in 2023
1,230
Children were served through Success By 6 in 2023
481
Children were served through Help Me Grow in 2023
Early Childhood Development & Education Solutions
More News about Early Childhood Development & Education
-
United Way Grants Expand and Accelerate High-Quality Childcare in Central Alabama
Mayor Jared “Bubba” Cagle is proud to see new life breathed into the former Parrish High School in his town. The school was closed at the end of the 2013-14
-
United Way Grants to Nine More Childcare Centers Expand and Improve Early Learning in Central Alabama
Let there be light. Inside what used to be three dimly lit storage rooms at the former North Highland School in Jasper, two girls sit reading books in a totally transformed space designed for early learning. It’s now the largest classroom in the building with room for up to 18 children.
-
Young Philanthropists Assemble Backpacks Full of School Supplies for Students
UWCA’s Young Philanthropists Society made a significant impact by assembling backpacks with essential school supplies for students in need.
-
Stopping the Cycle of Child Abuse Starts with Coming Forward
It’s not always easy to hold the attention of kids in a classroom. But child advocacy workers from Blount County Children’s Center (BCCC) are committed to getting their message across.
-
Young Philanthropists Learn How United Way Is Creating Villages of Vital Services
Lucinda Armstrong and Emily Herring shed light on the critical role of schools in supporting youth mental health during a recent panel for United Way’s Young Philanthropists Society.