Parents and Families

PodcastEarly Works NewsParents and Families

An Ecosystem of Care and Community with Adriane Blackman

In the latest episode of the Early Link Podcast, the Children's Institute communications team records a long-form story by CI Guest Contributor, Adriane Blackman. Blackman's story, "An Ecosystem of Care and Community," delves into the transformation of early childhood education in Yoncalla, Oregon, documenting the impact of CI's Early Works initiative in partnership with incredible folks from across the community.

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NewsChild CareParents and Families Equity

Oregon’s Regional ‘Primeros Pasos’ Brings Together Sectors to Build Child Care for Latino Communities

In 2021, Mike McNally embarked on a mission to address needs identified by vineyard stewards in Oregon, focusing on housing and child care. This led to the formation of Primeros Pasos, a consortium aimed at creating best-in-class early childhood education and care for Latina communities in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties. Originally published by EdNC on 12/6/2023.

A woman with brown skin, dark hair in a ponytail, and a teal shirt stands in front of a festive child care wall display.
NewsParents and FamiliesSuccessful Students

A Decade of Togetherness

The sun dips lower in the sky on a hazy evening in late August, casting a warm golden hue across the football field at Yoncalla High School. The hum of excited chatter sets the scene, and children laugh and play. As the night unfolds, the sounds of music from a live band dance through the air as families mingle and children savor the remaining sunlight, on the cusp of a new school year. Framed by a stunning view of the Umpqua Valley, Yoncalla’s annual community barbecue has become a symbol of togetherness, woven into the fabric of the town.