Grand Beginnings Supports Programs, Health, and Education for Young Children

Our small mountain community continually makes investment in our youth a priority. We know that beautiful communities grow and sustain when our young people are supported and given opportunities that promote healthy development and learning. We as a community are all in for ensuring our kids have the resources needed to equip them to live healthy, balanced lives with the potential to pursue their passions. And it all starts with early childhood education.

Among the many benefits, children who participate in early childhood programs grow up to be healthier - both physically and mentally - and better educated, with higher-paying jobs and lower rates of incarceration. Grand Beginnings, a local nonprofit serving both Grand and Jackson Counties, is dedicated to supporting our young children aged birth to eight years by leveraging partnerships and resources to support quality and accessible early childhood services, healthy child development, kindergarten readiness, and family engagement in our community. 

GOALS

Grand Beginnings focuses on the whole child and prioritizes strengthening comprehensive early childhood workforce and program supports, early childhood mental health supports, child health and development, and family support and engagement. If you are looking for early childcare in the county, you likely know that options are limited and waitlists are long! Grand Beginnings is actively working to grow early childhood educators and increase the opportunities for quality care in the county. And regardless of whether or not your child is in a care setting, they provide supports to ensure milestones are being met and set families up with resources when they are not. Their mental health program supports needs of young children who may need a little extra help in building social and emotional skills like resilience, regulation, friendship skills, or attachment. And they're constantly partnering with families by providing growth opportunities for kids and educational experiences for caregivers. 

RESOURCES + EVENTS

One of our favorite events Grand Beginnings puts on each year is the Children's Fair. If you live in the county and have kids eight and under, be sure to mark your calendar for this one! Held at Sun Outdoors off Hwy 34 in Granby, the event is packed with activities and educational opportunities for kids. From planting flowers with the Forest Service to face painting to making the world's biggest bubbles, the team at Grand Beginnings partners with local organizations for this annual celebration of the young child. This year's event is scheduled for Friday, April 24th from 11am to 1pm. 

In addition to events for our littles, they also sponsor educational opportunities for parents and caregivers. The Incredible Years 14-week parenting class for parents of kids aged 3-6 is typically offered once a year, free of charge, with childcare and dinner provided. 

Grand Beginnings also offers home visits with nurses, mental health services, health screenings, and more, all at no cost to the family. 

SUPPORT

Grand Beginnings is supported by both public and private entities, including grant awards from foundations (like the Grand Foundation and Temple Buell) and local and state government grants and contracts.

Ready to get involved? You can easily donate online or volunteer to support this great cause!

WANT TO LEARN MORE? 

We've lived in this county for decades, so we know the ins and outs of youth programming and supports. Whether you're trying to contact with other parents, seeking financial support for opportunities, or want to learn more about childcare in the county should you call this place home, we are here for you. We'd love to connect, grab a coffee, and talk all things Grand County youth!

Posted by Angela McDonough (Sandstrom) on

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