(Indianapolis, IN) – The Southeastern Indiana YMCA is one of 68 organizations across the state to receive funding by joining the Early Years Initiative.
The Batesville-based organization was awarded $100,000.
Early Learning Indiana announced a total of $23 million in grants to help meet developmental needs of infants and toddlers from birth to age 3.
The initiative is designed to strengthen foundational learning and development, but programs and projects are as varied as the needs of the young children they serve. They fall under four strategic priorities:
- Parenting Preparation and Support – Strengthening families through home visiting and parent education programs.
- Child Care Access and Effectiveness – Ensuring access to supportive child care.
- Early Detection and Intervention – Supporting the early detection of developmental needs or disabilities and implementing responsive interventions.
- Early Language and Literacy – Promoting essential skills through early language strategies.
“Research is clear that a child’s brain develops most between birth and age 3 and that the neural pathways formed in these earliest years of life form the basis for all future learning and development,” said Maureen Weber, President and CEO of Early Learning Indiana. “That’s why the work of the Early Years Initiative is so critical. We must ensure supportive environments and responsive interactions between infants and toddlers and their caregivers to set the trajectory for their overall development and lifelong learning.”
Organizations taking part in the Early Years Initiative include social service providers, faith-based organizations, community foundations, United Ways, child care providers, school districts, higher education institutions and other non-profits in 80 Indiana counties.
