October is Head Start Awareness Month, a time to highlight the vital work being done in early education and the incredible impact of programs like Child Inc in our Austin community. For more than 50 years, Child Inc has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive early childhood education, nurturing children from low-income families to reach their fullest potential. We are proud to celebrate the whole-child approach that makes our Head Start program stand out, ensuring that each child in our care is supported emotionally, physically, and academically.

This year, to bring more attention to the value of early education, we are inviting community members to participate in a special Volunteer Circle Time Reading event in our classrooms. These events are a wonderful opportunity for volunteers to engage with our students, bringing the joy of reading into their lives and highlighting the importance of literacy. It’s a great way to support our mission and inspire the next generation of lifelong learners.

Thanks to the generosity of our grantors, WellPoint and the Rosendin Foundation, we are excited to announce the launch of new, dedicated spaces within our centers for healthcare professionals to meet with children one-on-one. These safe, engaging environments will provide essential services and support, ensuring that all aspects of a child’s well-being are addressed. These new spaces will allow mental health staff and external professionals to work closely with children who need additional care, fostering their development in a nurturing setting.

We are also hosting open houses at our centers throughout October, giving families the chance to tour our classrooms, meet our teachers, and learn about the many resources available to them. These events are an excellent way for parents and caregivers to connect with our staff, ask questions, and understand how Child Inc supports both children and families throughout their early education journey.

To wrap up Head Start Awareness Month, we’ll come together as a community at our Annual Fall Harvest Festival on October 29th. This festive event is a celebration of our Head Start families, staff, and supporters. With fun activities, games, and food, it’s a time for everyone to join in and appreciate the strong connections we’ve built. The festival highlights the sense of community that is central to our work, where families come together to support one another and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Child Inc has played an essential role in Austin, serving families across the community with a commitment to providing inclusive, high-quality early education. Through the Head Start program, we aim to empower children to succeed in school and in life. As we celebrate this month, we are reminded that our work is about more than just education—it’s about building a future where every child has the tools to become an independent and self-sufficient adult.

We are so grateful for the continued support of our community partners, volunteers, and families who help us make a lasting difference. Join us in celebrating Head Start Awareness Month and the powerful impact it has on the lives of children and families in Austin!