In 2009, we served 72 families comprised of 118 children and 105 parents. Thirty-eight fathers or male caregivers participated in Fathering for Success. Forty-four percent of our families were families headed by single a mother. We provided 184 days of classroom experiences, with 2 half day toddler and 2 half day preschool classes each day, 51 Family Day, Night or Special family events, 20 Dad's night for our Fathering for success program and 9 Latino Family Nights. 100% of families were provided with home visiting services to address acknowledged needs. We offered parenting support, resource referrals and crisis intervention to each family. 66% of our parents followed up on one or more resource referral. 59% of parents demonstrated positive parenting techniques that convey knowledge and understanding of early childhood developmental milestones. 59% of parents demonstrated positive parenting techniques that enhance school readiness prior to entering kindergarten. 62% of parents demonstrated positive, effective parent/child communication techniques with their child. 59% of parents demonstrated increased confidence and self-control when responding to their child’s needs. 76% of children improved their ability to follow routines and schedules with adult guidance. 81% of children improved their skills in at least two areas of cognitive, language, motor, or self-help domains.

Continue to diversify funding sources in order to adapt to a changing economic landscape and Hennepin County budget cuts, including the creation of an Individual Gifts and Foundation committee. Complete updating of Personnel Guidelines and files. Implement High/Scope Curriculum and Child Observation Record assessment tool in our toddler and preschool classrooms. Continue to seek funding for and move forward with the creation of the natural playscape in our backyard area. Secure funding and begin implementation of a longitudinal study to document the long-term success of our programs for children we serve.

We serve diverse families who are living in moderate to severe poverty and who are struggling with multiple issues in their lives and the lives of their children

We serve families in the Phillips, Seward, Powderhorn and Whittier Neighborhoods of South Minneapolis