(HARRIS COUNTY – SATURDAY, APRIL 26): VN TeamWork, Inc., in partnership with Harris County’s Early Learning Quality Network (ELQN), will host an engaging community town hall to celebrate and kick off the next phase of this $1.725 million investment in early childhood education across Southwest Houston.

Spanning May 2025 through August 2026, this new phase marks the beginning of on-the-ground implementation in ZIP codes served by VN TeamWork. It will focus on expanding access to high-quality early learning and care by investing in affordability, professional development, and safety and security materials for families and providers.

On Saturday, April 26, from 10:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Alief Neighborhood Center (11903 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77072, Senior Room), VN TeamWork, Inc., ELQN partners, and special guest Commissioner Lesley Briones (Harris County Precinct 4) will join families, educators, and community advocates to commemorate this milestone and share how this historic investment will uplift children and working families in the Alief community. ELQN leaders will provide information and resources on next steps to participate in the initiatives and explain how community input has directly shaped the priorities for this phase.

Attendees will enjoy a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, with children’s activities and entertainment, such as a DJ, photobooth, magician, face painter, balloon artist, playground, bounce house, and toy giveaway, available throughout the event. Boxed lunches and light refreshments will be provided to those who RSVP. To RSVP, call or email 281-495-8936 or ELQN@vnteamwork.org

Launched in 2023, Harris County’s ELQN initiative represents a historic investment in community-driven improvement of early learning environments. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Local Fiscal Recovery Funds and overseen by the Harris County Department of Economic Equity and Opportunity (DEEO), ELQN collaborates with child care providers, families, and community stakeholders to create high-quality early learning care and education opportunities that reflect community needs.

With a total of $16.4 million, fueled by ARPA funding and supported by the Harris County Commissioners Court, through 2026 this initiative empowers four Local Network Organizations (LNOs) in five targeted communities to lead quality improvement plans in under-resourced neighborhoods. As the designated Network Support Hub (NSH), CHILDREN AT RISK (C@R) administers ELQN funds to secure services through RFPs based on community priorities. C@R also provides ongoing support as LNOs collaborate with their communities and Advisory Committees to enact the Child Care Quality Action Plans (CCQAPs) tailored to each targeted community in Harris County. In partnership with its Local Network Organizations – East Harris County Empowerment Council, Harris County Public Library, VN TeamWork, Inc., and YMCA of Greater Houston – ELQN is positioned to make a lasting impact on child care quality in high-need areas across Harris County.

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About the Early Learning Quality Network (ELQN)

The Early Learning Quality Network (ELQN) is a Harris County initiative dedicated to raising quality in early childhood education, fostering educator excellence, and promoting equitable access to quality early care and education  for all young children. ELQN collaborates closely with the community to ensure every child has access to a strong educational foundation.

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About CHILDREN AT RISK

CHILDREN AT RISK is a research and advocacy nonprofit leading the way in improving the quality of life for Texas’ children. CHILDREN AT RISK considers the whole child by tracking issues in children’s health, safety, education, and economic security to improve equity and justice for all Texas families. Committed to action beyond the data, CHILDREN AT RISK drives evidence-based change by speaking out on behalf of children. For more information, visit childrenatrisk.org, Facebook, and Twitter.

About the Department of Economic Equity and Opportunity

Established by the Harris County Commissioners Court in 2021, the Department of Economic Equity & Opportunity’s (DEEO) mission is to connect, value, and empower people, businesses, and communities. The Early Childhood Initiatives division of the department works towards ensuring that every child has access to a high-quality early learning experience, setting them up for success now and beyond.  For more information, please visit https://deeo.harriscountytx.gov/Early-Childhood-Initiatives.

Harris County Public Library

Harris County Public Library’s mission is to enrich lives to strengthen communities. HCPL is a network of 27 community-focused branch libraries offering programs and services that foster literacy and lifelong learning. The library is committed to providing excellent customer service, strong collections, and cutting-edge information technology. For more information, visit hcpl.net/.

East Harris County Empowerment Council

Established in 2008, the East Harris County Empowerment Council (EHCEC) is committed to improving quality of life through innovative, sustainable programs and services that empower men, women, and youth to achieve their full potential. Through a strong network of invested individuals, community partners, and caring corporations, EHCEC is dedicated to educational enrichment, economic development, and health and wellness of the eastern, unincorporated communities of the Harris County surrounding area. For more information, visit eastharriscounty.org/.

VN TeamWork, Inc.

VN TeamWork is a nonprofit multi-service organization that provides a variety of social services, educational programs, and affordable housing to serve the diverse communities of Houston. The mission of VN TeamWork is to enhance the health, education, and social well-being of low-income and underserved people in the greater Houston area. For more information, visit vnteamwork.org/.

YMCA of Greater Houston

Founded in 1886, today, the Y remains committed to the health of more than half a million people who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our locations across Greater Houston. Strengthening the community is our cause. Together, we connect active, engaged Greater Houston Area residents to build a better us. Learn more at ymcahouston.org/.