Spring Updates from the Early Childhood Council Team

The first quarter of 2025 has been a vibrant and productive time for our Early Childhood Councils (ECCs), filled with new programs and community engagement. Our team has been on the road, supporting councils and helping launch fresh activities across the state. Hattiesburg Excel By 5 kicked things off with a well-attended community leader breakfast, fostering connections and raising awareness about the importance of early childhood work. Richton Head Start Center hosted its first Community Resource Fair, handing out new books to kids of all ages and connecting families with valuable local resources. Over in Gulfport, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center brought families together for Mindfulness Day, focusing on youth mental health and relaxation.

Behind the scenes, Cheryl has been hard at work equipping parents with training and resources on child development and milestone tracking, ensuring every child gets the support they need. Jessica has been busy promoting programs, events, and grant opportunities, helping our councils grow and thrive. We’re also celebrating a partner’s recent grant award to launch a special needs program at their community center-a big win for inclusive services!

As always, our mission is to meet community needs and build strong networks with other organizations, spreading opportunity and support throughout the state. Thank you for being part of our journey as we continue to make a difference together!

The CFM team attended the MS Lift Spring Summit at the University of Southern Mississippi in Long Beach, MS, this April.  It was great to connect with our partners and others in the industry!

A few members from CFM, including Jae Young and Jessica Senter, attended the Alliance meeting conference in Jackson, MS. It was great to reconnect with friends from Save the Children, Mario, Excel By 5’s Mechelle Chane, and our longtime supporter Lloyd Gray, Executive Director of the Phil Hardin Foundation.

The ECC Team, Cheryl Dexter and Jessica Senter, attended Richton Head Start Center’s first Community Resource Fair in Richton, MS. The event had a great turnout with many resources for youth and families, and they gave away brand new books to children of all ages. CFM was proud to be there in support.