First 5 Mendocino has dedicated 25 years to enhancing the lives of children and families in Mendocino County. Our work focuses on the critical early years of child development, which are essential for establishing a foundation for future physical, mental, and emotional wellness.

Key Highlights

1. Support for Early Childhood Development: First 5 Mendocino emphasizes the importance of the first five years of life, providing resources and programs that support early childhood education and development. This includes working with local preschools and educational initiatives aimed at improving school readiness among children.
2. Community Resources: First 5 Mendocino was the first county in California to invest in The Triple P Positive Parenting Program! We have invested in training hundreds of local professionals in various levels of Triple P, saturating all agencies that work with children and families throughout Mendocino County! Having this program in common throughout the county ensures a consistency in parents have access to the information and support they need to nurture their children effectively. 
3. Collaborative Efforts: First 5 Mendocino collaborates with local agencies and organizations to offer professional development trainings and workshops in order to create a comprehensive support system for families. This includes partnerships with social services, public health, educational institutions, and community organizations to address the diverse needs of children and their families.
4. Advocacy and Awareness: Over the years, First 5 Mendocino has played a crucial role in advocating for policies that benefit young children and families. Our efforts have raised awareness about the importance of early childhood development and the need for community support, which include attending Advocacy Days at the State Capitol in Sacramento and working with our local Board of Supervisors.
5. Literacy Programs: First 5 Mendocino has partnered with the Dolly Parton Foundation and other literacy programs to bring free books to all children throughout the county, from birth to 5 years old.
6. Funding and Grants: The organization has sought out additional funding streams to be able to offer additional support to various programs and initiatives that directly benefit children and families in Mendocino County. This financial support has been vital in sustaining early childhood education programs and other vital resources.

Our Commitment

First 5 Mendocino’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for children and families has made a lasting impact on the community. Our team’s focus on early childhood development, resource provision, collaboration, advocacy, and funding has helped shape a brighter future for the children of Mendocino County. We remain committed to moving forward, improving systems and outcomes for all children and families.