Another Year of Challenge

The Early Childhood Impact (ECI) program continued to face many challenges and changes in 2021-2022, and like the rest of the world, operated within a “new normal.” As COVID-19 impacts evolved, the program was able to loosen some restrictions around social distancing, and we gradually began to increase enrollment, bringing more children and families back into our care. We continued to implement precautions such as masking and daily health screenings to keep everyone as safe and as healthy as possible. The program still experienced a high number of classroom closures over the year, due to staff and child illnesses, as well as other COVID impacts. However, no matter what the circumstances, ECI staff and volunteers found a way to make a positive difference in our communities!

Highlights from 2021-2022 include:

 Over 50 Early Educator Apprentices graduated, completing Associate Teacher permits, AA & BA degrees.

 Staff planned and prepared for new center locations in areas with families in need of services.

 Families were reached by virtual training, workshops, events, medical and dental clinics and computer donations.

The YMCA continues to work on program goals to strengthen the services and systems for children, families, staff and the community. The following goals are addressed: 1) Increase family engagement, 2) recruit and retain highly qualified staff and 3) improve health outcomes for children and families, with a focus on wellness.