September 12, 2011

Last week, Children’s Friend celebrated the Grand Opening of the Friendship Center.  It is without question that the best changes often begin as the smallest ideas…

As I looked into the faces of eager young children ready to begin school on Monday, there is no questioning why we did what we did for this building.  It needed to be a safe place with fire sprinklers and enclosed access to the playground.  A place where families could meet for Policy Council and provide oversight for program operations.  A place where teachers and family workers alike could know how incredibly valued they are and the important role they play in supporting the children and families we serve.

As I stood and watched one of these eager young faces cut the ribbon to commemorate the official opening, it was impossible to not see the “village of people” that made this possible.  He was accompanied by his father and flanked by those who made this center’s renovation possible.  Each person who stood there played a role in making this incredible center a reality.

When we see Senator Sheldon Whitehouse standing in the ranks, we see a man who stood up for Head Start on the floor of the Senate last spring as he told the story of one of the many parents we support.  When we see Attorney general Kilmartin speak about wanting to meet kids in classrooms not when they run into trouble, we see the commitment from law enforcement to our work. When we see Director Sandra Powell representing her team and that of Governor Chafee, we know that both endeavored passionately to preserve Head Start in the difficult budget climate of May and June.  When we see Council President Solomon and Councilman Narducci, not only do we see friends who have read to our young children during our Dr. Seuss reading day, but those who have advocated for funding that made this renovation possible.  And Mayor Taveras has let us all know that the road from Head Start to Harvard to City Hall has already been paved and he is a true inspiration to all the children and families.  And finally, Policy Council Vice-Chair, Nayrobi Almonte spoke well when she talked about what it means to be engaged in your child’s education.  She epitomizes what it means to share governance for this program and I am honored to have the chance to work with her.

In the audience that day were countless families, staff and friends.  The work of providing supports to vulnerable children and their friends is humbling most any day.  And this was one of those days that I was proud of everything that we have accomplished to date and eager to see “small idea” will emerge next.

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