Culturally Specific Models
The cultural models consist of groups of 15 – 20 childcare providers and community leaders. The groups meet on a monthly basis to discuss child- related issues, school readiness, and early literacy. Training opportunities are provided on topics such as; Leadership, advocacy and community building, etc. These training opportunities aim to provide increased participation from voices of diverse communities being represented on committees and meetings regarding the discussing of child-related issues. The group’s focus is to acquire the leadership skills necessary to establish a functioning “Support and Leadership group”, advocate for communities, increase their capacity to access community resources, and strengthen their abilities to be leaders. Each model is designed according to the needs in their community. These cultural models are in a pilot phase.

• African American Providers Support Group

• Somali/Oromo Women’s Leadership Group

• Latino/Chicano Support Group

• Mixed cultural backgrounds and rural areas