June 2026 Newsletter
The Sandbox: Neighbors Connecting Neighbors: Community Ambassadors Bridge the ECE Resource Gap
In the latest edition of The Sandbox, Emma Covas, an intern with the Children’s Opportunity Alliance, shares how the first Neighborhood Ambassador Initiative aims to support families and communities throughout Montgomery County.
These dedicated community members are helping to spread awareness about available early care and education (ECE) resources through in-person outreach in their communities.
The Neighborhood Ambassador Initiative trains supports navigators to connect families to resources in culturally responsive and accessible ways – one of the goals of the Common Agenda. It’s also a reflection of the Alliance’s commitment to strengthening ECE through grassroots efforts and community-driven solutions.
Join the Alliance Board
The Alliance is seeking passionate parents and ECE educators to consider joining our Board of Directors. We currently have two open seats for individuals in Montgomery County:
One for a center-based ECE educator
One for a parent/caregiver
Board members serve for three years and, among other duties, develop recommendations for increasing availability and access to high-quality ECE programs. Members are eligible for supports for both in-person and virtual meetings.
The deadline to apply is Friday, July 10.
For more information and to submit your application, visit the County’s website:
The Alliance in the News
Executive Director Kimberly Rusnak and Board Chair Tiffany Jones recently joined Montgomery Municipal Cable’s “Solutions” program to discuss the current state of the ECE system and what the Alliance and our partners are doing to serve all young children and their families.
Share Your ECE Story
We believe that real stories lead to real change. The Alliance is gathering short, real-life experiences from educators and families across the County about what the ECE system is really like. We want to hear from you!
How are you navigating the day-to-day reality of child care? If you have had to go without child care, how has that affected you and your family?
How are you making ends meet?
What support would make a difference?
What is life like when your child is in an early childhood setting?
Your perspectives will help us as we work to shift public will toward prioritizing ECE as a public good and a vital investment in Montgomery County. You can share a written, video, or audio story on our site.