My search for organizations that foster the well being of children, families and the early childhood field include two local organizations in Whatcom County of Washington State and one state-wide organization.  The mission statement of two organizations reaches out to children at risk while the third organization’s mission supports all children in Washington State.

Blue Skies for Children is a local organization in Bellingham, WA that sponsors enrichment programs and other essentials such as clothing and school supplies for homeless, low-income and foster children.  Their make-a-wish program is funded through sponsorship.  When sponsoring a child the interested party can pick a program such as, dance, Taekwondo, gymnastics, and art lessons.  I am interested in becoming a board member for the organization.  Some skills that may be necessary to be a board member will be strong communication skills, budget development and management, policy development and analysis and flexibility to understand a variety of perspectives for how to achieve the goal.

The mission of Rebound of Whatcom County is “committed to equipping, strengthening and empowering children and families facing difficult life circumstances” (www.reboundwc.org).   Some of the services offered include, summer camps for children in need, torturing programs, parenting enrichment programs and support groups for parents facing difficult circumstances.  If the position of executive director were to become available I would apply.   Some skills necessary to fulfill this position may be, grant writing skills, strong connection to community resources, strong insight on establishing and maintaining collaborations, budgeting, organizational management and effective communication.

The third organization of interest is the Foundation for Early Learning.  Their mission statement reads, “Finding and fostering opportunities that support kindergarten-readiness for young children, birth to age five, in Washington State” (www.earlylearning.org).  This organization provides community grants and resources to organizations supporting early learning partnerships.  In reading about three partnerships across the state I learned the funding from the Foundation for Early Learning have supported children and families to connect with local resources to support English Language Learners, literacy, and early intervention services to address mental health issues for children ages birth to five.  The position of interest for this organization is the Program Manager.   The Program Manager manages grant activities, supports the Early Learning Public Library Partnership and the Native American Early Learning Initiative.  Skills necessary to support this position may be, knowledge of local Native cultures, child development, establishing and maintaining community partnerships, grant writing and analysis, strong communication skills and a strong connection to community resources.