Early Edge Convenes Tenth Community of Practice of the California Leading From Home Program
On May 29th, Early Edge California convened the tenth Leading from Home (LFH) Community of Practice (CoP). In this discussion, each Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) leader was able to build upon the activities from the ninth CoP, where FFN leaders developed personal narratives in preparation for their advocacy day in the state capitol which would encompass problems, solutions, and call to actions when meeting with California policymakers and the media. Personal narratives shared within the CoP also helped inform the policy agenda of the upcoming advocacy day, which includes topics such as accessibility and navigation to child care subsidies, access to professional development opportunities, and obtaining licensure. By sharing their personal stories of receiving subsidies that are not sufficient enough to cover the cost of care, of not being able to afford or access trainings and workshops, and being overwhelmed with information but lacking guidance in navigating the few and unclear pathways to licensure.
Early Edge is enthusiastic about the participation of ten passionate and seasoned FFN providers in our initiative to gain profound insights into the unique needs and barriers faced by FFN providers and ultimately amplify their voices throughout California. For further details about this program, please visit the California Leading From Home webpage on the Early Edge website.
The California Leading from Home (LFH) Program seeks to support Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers in developing their advocacy skills and helps them establish grassroots support networks within their communities. These monthly Community of Practice (CoP) gatherings aim to foster mutual learning and collaboration, empowering these caregivers to elevate their voices and needs within their local communities and across the state. The purpose of LFH is to invest in and empower FFN caregivers, enabling them to inform policymakers about the importance of FFN child care and what is needed to support them in their caregiving. The cohort members also receive a monthly stipend for their participation and commitment to the program