Championing Children, Empowering Families, & Strengthening Community

The Early Childhood Council of the San Luis Valley (ECC SLV) is dedicated to building a high-quality, comprehensive early childhood system across Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Mineral, Rio Grande, and Saguache counties.

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The Foundation of Our Work

icon of two children leaping
icon of two children leaping

OUR MISSION

Support the well-being and optimal development of young children by:

  • Strengthening the system of early childhood

  • Enhancing early childhood professionals’ capacity

  • Connecting families to vital resources

OUR VISION

“We envision a community where all members prioritize and invest in our children to build a thriving society.”

OUR PURPOSE

Working together to create a community where young children are valued, healthy, and thriving. The Early Childhood Council serves as a catalyst for positive change, playing a pivotal role in influencing policies, securing funding, and driving systemic improvements that enhance early childhood initiatives.

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How We Create Regional Impact

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Early Learning & Quality Care

Supporting Family Child Care Homes, centers, and FFN caregivers through licensing guidance, quality ratings (Colorado Shines), and professional development.

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Family Support & Home Visiting

Empowering parents through evidence-based programs like Parents As Teachers, Seedlings, and Positive Solutions for Families.

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Health & Mental Wellness

Promoting infant/toddler health screenings, nutrition, emergency preparedness, and early childhood mental health consultations.

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Basic Needs & Emergency Relief

Operating essential safety nets like the San Luis Valley Diaper Bank to support household stability for young families.

Colorado counties, with the San Luis Valley counties highlighted

Localized Support Across 8,000+ Square Miles

Rural early childhood needs require deeply local solutions. ECC SLV proudly serves families and child care providers across all six counties in our region:

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ALAMOSA •

CONEJOS •

COSTILLA •

MINERAL •

RIO GRANDE •

SAGUACHE •

ALAMOSA • CONEJOS • COSTILLA • MINERAL • RIO GRANDE • SAGUACHE •

A group photo of the staff of the Early Childhood Council of the San Luis Valley
yellow icon of a kid jumping
yellow icon of a kid jumping

Looking for our daily staff and program managers?

Parents playing monopoly with their kids
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Governance & Community Accountability

As a non-profit early childhood council recognized by the State of Colorado, ECC SLV is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors and Advisory Council representing local health departments, school districts, child care providers, and parent advocates.

Public Disclosures & Governance:

  • Annual Impact & Budget: We manage local, state, and federal grants with complete fiscal transparency to ensure maximum impact for Valley children.

  • Governance Documents: Learn more about our advisory board, meeting minutes, and strategic plan.

Invest in the Future of Our Community

Every child in the San Luis Valley deserves a strong, healthy start. Your support helps us expand our reach, fund diaper bank supplies, and build a resilient early childhood network.

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