Training & Professional Development by Rupani Foundation USA

In February, the Rupani team had the privilege of working with 21 informal caregivers and 79 child care providers across 20 centers — and we could not be more proud of the impact made.

The Child Care Providers’ Training, held in collaboration with ELQN Local Network Organization EHCEC at Kids R Kids and VN Teamwork, united 43 teachers and directors representing nine languages, a true reflection of the vibrant, multicultural communities we serve. A second training with the VN Teamwork community engaged an additional 36 directors and teachers, with both sessions immersing participants in hands-on learning through gallery walks of thoughtfully designed classroom environments, deepening their understanding of ECD milestones, ASQ screening, inclusive practices, and holistic child development across all domains — cognitive, social-emotional, language, and motor. Our Group 36 session of informal caregivers, conducted with the HCPL 3 community, brought together 21 informal caregivers and inspired them to transform their homes into rich learning spaces using everyday household items as creative tools, embracing storytelling to nurture language and family connection, and building emotional resilience through a dedicated stress management session — because when caregivers thrive, children flourish.

Together, these trainings reached over 100 participants and stand as a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when we invest in the people who shape our children’s earliest years. 

Emergency & Temporary Care

by Neighborhood Schools and WorkTexas!

At WorkTexas and Neighborhood Schools, Inc., we’re proud to support our child care providers through Harris County DEEO’s ELQN Emergency and Temporary Care Program (ETCP)—delivering quality care for families facing financial hardship, emergencies, or on the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Child Care Services waitlist.

During our most recent routine visit to Jacqueline Gould’s home child care, which serves four children through the ETCP, we observed Ms. Mar’Keda’s class engaging in an inspiring morning lesson that showcased thoughtful, relevant early education.

The children started with daily affirmations, eagerly repeating positive statements to build confidence. In honor of Black History Month, Ms. Mar’Keda reviewed the biography of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Barbara Jordan. Children shared Dr. King’s dream that all children could play together.

The group remained engaged while reviewing numbers, colors, emotions and shapes—excitedly identifying the hexagon and counting its six sides.

This intentional, nurturing approach is exactly what ETCP celebrates and supports in the East Harris County Empowerment Council community. Thank you, Ms. Gould and Ms. Mar’Keda, for creating enriching moments for Harris County’s young learners—we’re grateful for partners like you!