Thanks to the generous GIFT VIII funding awarded by Lilly Endowment in December 2024 and the dedication of BSB partners, several new collaborative projects are launching in spring and summer 2025, building on the many efforts already in progress.
Head Start Boot Camp
This eight-week summer program focused on kindergarten readiness skills for children who remain on the Head Start waitlist in May and will enter kindergarten in the fall. This program launched in May and expects to serve about 100 children, with priority for families living in the 46516 and 46528 zip codes. Learn more: http://headstartesj.com/
Nurturing Care Groups
This approach builds on community strengths and lived experience by engaging parents and caregivers as volunteers to offer education and support. Volunteers share information about child health, safety, connection, and maternal well-being, creating a supportive network for pregnant women, new parents, and caregivers. Learn more: https://capselkhart.org/
Community Resource Navigator Cohort
This initiative expands resource navigation services for families in communities with the greatest needs, focusing on the 46516 and 46528 zip codes. A shared learning agenda helps gather information about what helps or hinders families in getting support. Read more below about this cohort launched in May 2025.: https://buildingstrongbrains.
Case Management
Expanded case management supports families with children from prenatal to age 2. The goal is to increase prenatal visits, provide safe sleep education, reduce low and very low birth weights, and offer breastfeeding support. Learn more: https://elkhartcountyhealth.
Early Childhood Mental Health Services
This effort expands direct mental health services for young children at risk of removal from preschool programs. It includes training and consultation for childcare staff, along with direct support for families through mental health guidance and resource navigation. Learn more: https://thesourceelkhart.org/