Who is the Down East Partnership for Children (DEPC)?

The Down East Partnership for Children is a nonprofit organization, serving Nash and Edgecombe counties, committed to launching every child as a lifelong learner by grade 3.

We believe:                                                                                            

-That all families want the best for their
 children                       

-That parents are their child's first
 teacher                                        

-That all children have the right to a quality education

-That all families should have the resources they need to
 thrive

-That our services must support parents, as well as children

Since 1993, DEPC has worked in collaboration with parents, child care providers, teachers, other human services agencies and organizations, businesses, government and religious leaders to build a community where every child is successfully launched as a lifelong learner by age 8.

Vision

We believe that all children and their families can reach their full potential when surrounded by a united and supportive community.

Mission

To build a strong foundation for children and families by advocating and supporting both high quality early care and education and a coordinated system of community resources.

Goals

Unique Support for Each Child and Family

-DEPC values and respects that each child and family is unique and, as such, has unique
 strengths and needs.

High Quality Early Care & Education Environments

-DEPC believes that the developmental period for children from 0 to age 8 is critical to
 launching them as lifelong learners. During this time, children are exposed to a variety of
 environments. Each of these environments (home, child care, and school) must be of high
 quality for children to be successful.

Access to Coordinated Community Resources

-DEPC has always valued collaboration and the role it plays in coordinating resources to
 increase availability and access to services that meet the needs of the community.

DEPC provides direct services to children, families and child care providers. DEPC also provides funding, technical assistance and program support to other agencies and organizations serving children, families and child care providers.

Currently, DEPC funds 30 programs, many in 12 partnering agencies or organizations in Nash and Edgecombe counties. Programs and services provided directly through the DEPC Family Resource Center include---

Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Program

Child Care Resource & Referral Regional Services

Child Care Subsidy Program

Family Resource Program

Community Outreach

Research & Evaluation

DEPC is organized around a Board of Directors with multiple Board Committees that oversee all administrative, financial and program activities. DEPC's Board of Directors and working committees are made up of parents, child care providers, representatives from the school systems and human service agencies, members of the faith community and local business and government. Each member is committed to DEPC's vision and mission and provides valuable input in the work to create change for children and families.

DEPC offices are located in the DEPC Family Resource Center at 215 Lexington Street in Rocky Mount, NC. The Center is also the site for a variety of community activities including parenting classes, family activities and meetings.