How PNC Supports Colorado’s Littlest Learners
Colorado’s children are enjoying more high-quality early childhood education experiences than ever thanks to PNC Grow Up Great.
Launched in 2004, PNC Grow Up Great is a $500 million, bilingual early childhood education initiative that helps prepare children, particularly underserved children, from birth through age 5 for success in school and life. Expanding access to high-quality early childhood education is a logical extension of PNC’s commitment to supporting the communities where we live, work and play.
PNC Grow Up Great has worked with education experts to develop valuable resources and programs to support children, families and teachers. Additionally, as part of PNC Grow Up Great, more than 150 bilingual lesson plans have been created in collaboration with renowned arts and science organizations. The driving force behind this effort is simple — research continually shows that early education access provides benefits that go beyond individual families and help the entire community.
In Colorado, we collaborate with over 15 PNC Grow Up Great partners, including Mile High United Way and Clayton Early Learning. With PNC’s support, Mile High United Way has expanded early childhood education opportunities for underserved families at their new ECE Center in Denver. The program includes wraparound services such as Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY), along with workforce development for aspiring childcare providers and Family Friends & Neighbor (FFN) training to help informal care providers foster quality learning. Mile High United Way intends to expand their programming to four additional neighborhoods in Aurora and southwest Denver.
At Clayton Early Learning, PNC’s financial support enhances sensory learning opportunities for young learners. This includes a Sensory Garden update, expanding outdoor learning experiences for children, and Inside the Orchestra, which uses music to boost skills for school readiness, including intellectual, social-emotional, motor, language and overall literacy.
Across Colorado and throughout the nation, PNC Grow Up Great employs a comprehensive approach of grant funding, employee volunteerism, awareness and advocacy to support families, educators and community partners in providing innovative opportunities that enhance learning and development for our youngest community members, setting a path for success that lasts a lifetime. Learn more about PNC Grow Up Great, and access free bilingual resources for educators, parents and caregivers, at pncgrowupgreat.com.
