Partnerships create new capacity and outcomes that are often not attainable by organizations individually. Clinton County FCS Extension has been integral in partnership development, grant writing, facilitation of monthly Council meetings, program development, and fiscal management of the Anchors & Paws Community Early Childhood Council since the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood restructured councils and merged three counties (Clinton, Cumberland, and Russell) into one collaborative this year. Over 55 partners worked together using $15,200 in grant funds to create systems to ensure a strong foundation of school readiness for all children.

Based upon the Council’s success, notification has been received that in addition to the primary grant supplemental funds have also been awarded for next year providing the Council with $36,700 to impact early learning experiences of young children in our area.