WORDS: Shannon Evans
NextGen Family Magazine
The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County /EiC) was excited to receive $5,000 in grant funding from two dedicated community partners.
This funding will support critical programs that connect families to early learning opportunities and resources, helping children across Manatee County build strong educational foundations.
$3,000 Grant Fuels VPK Awareness Campaign
The Manatee Community Foundation awarded the ELC a $3,000 grant to support an awareness campaign about the free Voluntary Prekindergarten Program (VPK) program for 4-year-olds. Funded by the SunTrust Lakewood Ranch Education Fund, the Wells Fargo Fund, and the Cipolone Fund, this initiative aims to connect more Manatee County families with the benefits of early education.
With these resources, the ELC will enhance its strategy to reach families, including using digital media, community events, and partnerships with local organizations to tote the merits of VPK. By boosting enrollment, the campaign aims to set kids up for a smooth and successful start to their school journey.
$2,000 Grant for ReadingPals Literacy Program
The ELC’s early literacy initiative, ReadingPals, connects volunteer mentors with children who need additional support in fostering social-emotional growth and building foundational literacy skills. In January, the Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle (TLCWGC) awarded the ELC $2,000 in support of this crucial program.
Founded in 2014 by Barbara Najmy, TLCWGC exemplifies the power of collective giving. The organization has provided over $150,000 to nonprofits addressing the needs of children, families, and women. With this latest gift, the ELC will purchase books and program materials for ReadingPals, providing volunteers with the supplies they need to implement this initiative. Plus, children can take home their favorite stories and build personal home libraries that inspire a lifelong love of reading.
“Every grant tells a story-not just about funding, but about shared values and a commitment to something bigger than ourselves,” said Darrell King, CEO of the ELC. “The support from the Manatee Community Foundation and The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle reflects a belief in the transformative power of education.”
These grants highlight the impact of collaboration, from funding essential programs to providing books and materials that inspire a love of reading Thanks to impactful partnerships like these, the ELC can continue to build meaningful connections and create opportunities that will benefit families, schools, and the entire community for years to come. NG