Our Story & How to Get Involved
Collaborating to strengthen early childhood in Ravalli County.
Across Montana, local Early Childhood Coalitions (ECCs) coordinate partners and lead efforts to improve the health and well-being of children and families in their communities. ECCs demonstrate what is possible when community members coalesce with structure, resources, and collective power and influence. ECCs are a part of the broader early childhood system in Montana; therefore, understanding their structures, resources, and efforts unlocks greater potential to move community-based early childhood initiatives forward.
Guiding Principles of the bitterroot early childhood coalition
Mission Statement:
Our goal is to empower families, children, and those that serve them by increasing resources, educational opportunities, and support services to foster a thriving community.
Vision Statement:
The vision statement will be developed and refined with input from our representative community members and families, ensuring it reflects the perspectives and aspirations of all stakeholders in the coalition.
Advocacy and change happen when we work together
A recent census uncovered a pressing issue in Ravalli County – only 34% of families with children aged 6 and under, and 24% with children 2 and under, have adequate childcare. This shortage not only impacts workforce participation but demands community-wide attention.
Quality early childhood education is the foundation for a thriving community. We are committed to advocating for accessible, affordable, and high-quality child care for all families. Join us in our efforts by becoming a part of the Bitterroot Early Childhood Coalition.
Our Advocacy Focus
Our advocacy efforts focus on ensuring that every child has access to the education and care they need to succeed. Here’s how we’re making a difference:
- Policy Influence: We work with local and state policymakers to support legislation that improves child care funding, standards, and teacher training.
- Community Engagement: We organize forums and discussions that allow community members to voice their needs and opinions on child care issues.
Get Involved
Your voice matters! Whether you’re a parent, educator, community leader, or concerned citizen, you can help shape the future of early childhood in our community. Review the membership tiers below before filling out the form, then click the “Join” button to access the Bitterroot Early Childhood Coalition membership form and start making an impact today!
Membership is free and open to anyone committed to improving early childhood outcomes in Ravalli County. Collaborators attend meetings, share resources, and participate in cross-sector community discussions that shape our collective work.
Annual Investment: Free
Partner with BELN to co-design and lead projects, share data, and participate in coalition initiatives. Partners provide voluntary annual support of $250 to sustain coalition coordination and outreach.
Annual Investment: $250
Invited sponsorship level for organizations that want to financially support coalition projects, data work, or community initiatives. Sponsors receive recognition on all coalition materials.
Annual Investment: $1,000
…Montana’s economy loses more than $230 million each year due to inadequate child care, families lose $145 million in lost wages and businesses lose $55 million from lower worker productivity.