Birth to Five Illinois: Building the Future Early Childhood Workforce

51
Written By Guest User

August 6, 2026

Original coverage via the Chatham Area Chamber of Commerce.

Birth to Five Illinois works in every community in the State to:

  • Continually assess the Early Childhood programs available in each Region.

  • Understand what is available versus what local families say their children need.

  • Bring together community members and civic leaders to bridge the gap between what exists and what families need.

Project First Five is one of Birth to Five Illinois: Region 51's priority recommendations to strengthen the Early Childhood workforce by inspiring the next generation of professionals.

Through partnerships with local education, healthcare, behavioral health, and workforce organizations, students are learning about meaningful careers that support young children and families.

Project First Five partners include:

  • Lincoln Land Community College

  • Community Child Care Connection

  • IL WorkNet

  • Memorial Behavioral Health

  • Memorial Health

  • HSHS St. John's Pediatric Therapy Departments

  • Illinois Behavioral Health Workforce Center

  • University of Illinois Extension

  • Land of Lincoln Goodwill

  • SIU Medicine

  • UIC Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC)

  • And a growing network of community partners

Project First Five has engaged:

  • 3 high schools

  • 1 post-secondary institution

  • 1 career and technical education institution

  • 16 local organizations

  • More than 125 students

Students have been connected to scholarships, educational pathways, and Early Childhood career opportunities, while partners continue expanding workforce development efforts across the region.

This fall, Project First Five will visit additional schools, classrooms, and youth programs to introduce students to rewarding careers in Early Childhood.

Interested in joining Project First Five? Contact Amanda DeFord at adeford@birthtofiveil.com.

To learn more about Project First Five and Birth to Five Illinois: Region 51's Action Plan Progress Report, click the button below or visit our website www.birthtofiveil.com/reports/#action.

Guest User
Previous

Addressing Needs of Young Parents: Birth to Five Illinois Council Assists in Kids’ ‘Critical’ Early Years
Next

WTYE Civic Interest with Birth to Five Illinois