Each Child. Every Community.

Thank you to everyone who attended the Smart Start 25th Anniversary Gala.

For 25 years the Smart Start network has invested, at the state and local level, in programs and services for our youngest children and their families to ensure each child, in every community has quality early experiences and environments which secure a healthy start in life.

At the event, we raised just over $150,000 and we are so close to our goal. You can donate today to get us to our goal and help us reach more children.

Again, thank you for being a part of a magical night and for supporting our network. Your investments in Smart Start allow us to innovate, invest in local communities, and expand our programs and services.

Celebrating 25 Years of Serving North Carolina’s Children and Families

For all of 2018 Smart Start is celebrating 25 years of serving North Carolina’s youngest children and their families. In 1993, the North Carolina General Assembly created Smart Start, appropriating $20 million to 18 pioneer counties to begin the work of improving the quality of child care, strengthening families, and supporting healthy child development. By 1997, the funding had increased to $97 million and all 100 North Carolina counties were being served by Smart Start.

Since that time, Smart Start has become a nationally recognized leader in early childhood and healthy development. Our network of early childhood partnerships provides expertise, guidance and infrastructure to ensure North Carolina children receive the care and nurturing they need to thrive. Tailored to meet the specific needs of each community, we invest in early education, literacy, health and family support so that our children are ready to succeed, lead productive lives and contribute to a strong, vibrant North Carolina.