Session 2 of Spur Community Foundation’s Giving Thought Learning Series - “Hidden Crisis: Early Childhood Learning and Local Childcare” - is the subject of this article written by reporter Kari Dequine Harden and published in the Idaho Mountain Express. Click “read more” below.

A collaboration among the WRELC, Church of the Big Wood, and Spur Community Foundation brings much-needed infant care to the WRV in record time. Click “read more” to learn more in the article published by Eye on Sun Valley.

Click “read more” below to learn about Robert’s background and goals for early childhood education in Idaho in an article published by Idaho Education News.

The team at THRIVE Kids early learning center is ready to open the doors to over 30 young children aged birth through five. The Advocates, working with members of the WRELC, received a grant award of almost $500,000 from the Workforce Development Council to meet immediate local needs for quality and affordable care. Learn more in an article published by Eye on Sun Valley by clicking “read more” below.

Community members learned more about the work of the WRELC at The Wood River Women’s Foundation 5th annual State of the Valley Community Forum on February 6th. Panelists included former Idaho State Representative, Wendy Jaquet, BCSD Superintendent, Jim Foudy, Executive Director The Space, Aaron Bronson, WRELC Project Director, Kathryn Ivers and Executive Director Far + Wise, Laura Rose-Lewis. Watch a recording of the event by clicking “read more” below.

December 9, 2023 - For immediate release. Click “Read More” below to read the press release issued by the WRELC.

The WRELC teamed up with St. Luke’s Center for Community Health to throw a holiday party for over 100 attendees with play stations for young children, lunch from La Cabanita, raffles, music, and early learning kit giveaways! Parents received information on Abriendo Puertas parenting workshops and other resources at this truly joyful event!

Published August 16, 2023 - Article by Idaho Mountain Express journalist, Kari Dequine Harden, on the formation of the Wood River Early Learning Collaborative, the role of the Wood River Women’s Foundation, and the work to support local families and providers in expanding early learning opportunities.

Read the third article in a three-part series by clicking “Read More” below.

Published on August 9, 2023 - Article by Idaho Mountain Express journalist, Kari Dequine Harden, on the need for quality early childhood learning opportunities, not only for a young child's brain development and future success, but for the community as a whole from an economic perspective.

Read the second article in a three-part series by clicking “Read More” below.

Published on July 26, 2023 - Article by Idaho Mountain Express journalist, Kari Dequine Harden, discusses the struggle to remain open for some of Blaine County’s childcare providers.

Read the first article in a three-part series by clicking “Read More” below.