What if many of the challenges communities face today could be addressed by investing in where it all begins?
Research in Alberta has found fewer than 46% of children enter kindergarten ready for school in all five areas of development. Meaning many children begin school already facing barriers in cognitive, language, social-emotional, physical, and motor skills, that educators consider essential for success.But this is about more than the health of children, it offers a glimpse into the future of our communities.
That’s why Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF) has made early childhood development a strategic priority investing $2.5 million through 59 grants to organizations working with children and their families.
But creating this future takes more than funding. It takes the whole community.From parents and caregivers to social programs, educators and everyday Edmontonians — recognizing the importance of those early years, when 90% of brain development takes place.
In this episode, Angel Dahiya sits down with Doug McNally, former CEO of ECF and founder of the McNally Fund for Children, alongside Allan Undheim, ECF’s Vice President of Community Impact. Together they explore how investing in children and families, even small acts like reading a book, can create a big impact on the future of our little ones.
