First Things First

A new chapter is opening for young learners in the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) region, and it's been years in the making.

The Colorado River Indian Tribes Head Start celebrated the grand opening of its new facility in Parker, marking a meaningful milestone for generations of families who have grown up with the program. Acting Head Start Director Monica Rosnagle is also a First Things First CRIT regional partnership council member. Having lived all her live on the CRIT reservation, she has a deep understanding of the needs and strengths of the region.

Quality early learning looks different across Arizona’s communities. It can mean a welcoming classroom in a rural town, learning rooted in Tribal traditions and culture or a trusted family member helping a child grow. What matters is that every child has opportunities to learn, build relationships and develop the skills they need to thrive.

What a win for families and early childhood! Read the Manataba Messenger article: https://CritManatabaMessenger.com/

When Lawrence Todacheene began caring for his young nephew Brody, he noticed Brody was struggling with speech and staying focused throughout the day. Through the First Things First-funded Kith and Kin program, Lawrence learned simple ways to support Brody’s development, including daily routines, reading together and turning storytime into an adventure with a special tent. Soon, Brody was more focused, active and improving his speech.

Across Arizona, First Things First funds Family, Friend and Neighbor programs that help grandparents, aunts, uncles and other caregivers build the skills and confidence to help young children learn and grow.

💚 Caring for a young child? Find free programs and resources near you at FirstThingsFirst.org/Programs.

The first five years set the foundation for success in school and in life. Thank you, Kiwanis of Lake Havasu City, for leading by example and supporting a better early childhood system in Arizona!

𝗔𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗼𝗻𝗮’𝘀 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 𝗨𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲! 💙

Our children are our future, and every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive. 🌱

For 20 years, First Things First has helped Arizona’s youngest children get the strong start they deserve. Now, it’s time to update the funding model to keep pace with changes in to***co and ni****ne products and protect vital services for children and families.

The Kiwanis Club of Lake Havasu City encourages our community to add your voice and help protect Arizona’s investment in its youngest children! 💛

✍️ Sign the Letter of Support: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeet74d7e0mLUBMy9ZT9IK4wTWEN5u4LePOOhdfUrSTi0XWSw/viewform

Once you sign, share the message with friends, family, and fellow community members. Together, we can show Arizona lawmakers that our children’s future matters!

Because when we invest in our kids, we invest in the future of our entire community. 💙