Chatham County Partnership for Children is a nonprofit organization committed to ensuring that every child in Chatham County has a strong start in life.

Our work empowers families, strengthens early learning environments, and builds a healthier, more resilient community. By supporting the Igniting Dreams for Chatham’s Children Gala, you are helping sustain and expand these vital programs—making a lasting impact in the lives of children and families across Chatham County.

Services Provided:

• Smart Start Services

  • Supports early learning, school readiness, and healthy development for young children

  • Provides resources for families and early educators

• NC Pre-K Program

  • Offers high-quality, free pre-kindergarten education to eligible 4-year-olds in Chatham County

  • Supports early literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development

• Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) in Chatham, Lee, Harnett, Wayne and Johnson. 

  • Assists families in finding quality child care

• Professional Development for Early Educators

  • Offers workshops, certification support, and continuing education opportunities

  • Helps providers improve and maintain high-quality learning environment

• Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

  • Provides financial reimbursement for nutritious meals and snacks in child care settings

  • Encourages healthy eating habits from a young age

• Car Seat Safety Program

  • Offers car seat safety checks and education

  Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Groups

  • Facilitates free, weekly play-based learning groups for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers

  • Promotes early brain development and parent-child interaction

• Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

  • Enrolls families to receive a free, age-appropriate book every month to children under age 5 in the mail

• Community Engagement & Outreach

  • Hosts events and partnerships that raise awareness of early childhood issues

  • Builds community connections