As we gather around our tables this Thanksgiving, there’s an abundance of gratitude filling the air here at Best Beginnings. It’s with a heart full of thanks and a smile on my face that I reflect on the remarkable journey we’ve embarked on over the past year. Filled with treasured moments and milestones we’re honored to share with you.
Spreading the Joy of Reading & Imagination:
Through the collective efforts of our statewide partners, we’ve had the privilege of providing over 43,000 Imagination Library books to 136 communities. With further support from the Municipality of Anchorage, we were able to expand Anchorage Imagination Library city-wide, restoring program availability to pre-pandemic levels to reach even more families. These books are not just stories; they’re portals to worlds of imagination, sparking the love for reading in the hearts of children across the state.
Our On to Kindergarten camps in their second year have become a beacon of learning and laughter. This summer, the camp program will expand to even more location, both urban and rural, allowing us to reach even more children as they transition to the next stage of their educational journey with excitement and eager anticipation.
Empowering Children’s First Teachers:
This year, we had the joy of distributing 5,329 activity guides to early childhood professionals and families. These guides are not just pages and ink; they’re pathways to unlocking the immense potential within our little learners. To every professional and family that embraced and utilized these guides, thank you for being partners in fostering growth and curiosity.
We built on our partnership with United Way of Anchorage to serve as a backbone for the newly formed Anchorage Early Childhood Coalition – a group dedicated to improving equity and quality in the early learning, health, and welfare of all Anchorage’s young children through collaboration.
Putting Early Literacy Front and Center:
Shortly on the heels of hosting a community screening of The Right to Read Film, Best Beginnings stepped up to launch two initiatives. The first – a playgroup supporting reading scholars at Mountain View Elementary. Followed secondly by becoming the lead agency for launching in-person LENA Start parent education classes. These initiatives, aimed at improving school readiness through literacy, aligns seamlessly with our mission to empower every parent and child with the tools they need to thrive.
Embracing Change & Growth:
After over a decade of wonderful time in our Mountain View office space, we decided to spread our wings and embrace a hybrid workforce. The change was both liberating and invigorating, allowing us to adapt to the evolving needs of our team and the families we serve. Here’s to the future and the flexibility it brings! In the midst of such a heavy lift – we also grew!
From a staff of 3 to a vibrant team of 6, our growth has been a testament to the dedication and passion each member brings to Best Beginnings. Together, we’re not just colleagues; we make up a community working towards a common goal—ensuring every child gets the best possible start in life.
Sipping for a Cause:
In a first-of-its-kind event, Wine Women & Shoes Anchorage waltzed into our lives, raising awareness and critical funds for early literacy. To everyone who kicked up their heels and joined us, thank you for making it a night to remember!
Through all of our combined efforts, we’ve had the privilege of serving over 13,000 children and their families. And we’ve continued to work with numerous early childhood partners to advance the availability of services and policies Alaska families need to ensure their children grow and thrive. Each smile, each success story, is a reminder of the impact we can make when we come together for a common cause.
As we carve the turkey and savor the pumpkin pie, let’s carry this spirit of gratitude forward. Together, we’ve created a tapestry of success and positive change that goes beyond the numbers. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for being a part of the Best Beginnings family.
Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, joy, and the company of loved ones.
With gratitude,
Amie Collins
Executive Director, Best Beginnings
