Region Stories from Pima South

These stories illustrate how early childhood programs and services funded by First Things First make a difference for young children and families in communities across Arizona.

FTF CEO Melinda Morrison Gulick stands at a podium speaking at the United Way breakfast event.

Tucson business and education community show up in a big way for early childhood at awards breakfast

February 22, 2024
early childhood Pima South Pima North

The breakfast, Early Education is Everyone’s Business, brought together more than 600 business leaders and educators to champion the cause. Read More

College scholarship a life-changer for child care provider

1/12/2018
PD for ECE providers

When Desiree Lohrenz decided to open a home child care center in Tucson, she wanted it to be the kind of early learning environment that would have a lasting…

Quality First preschool helps Tucson boy transition to kindergarten

12/19/2017
Pima South

Anita Meek had a decision to make.Her son Levi was turning five in September, but he would miss the cut-off day for kindergarten by ten days. She weighed…

Susan Pace is Pima South’s 2017 Champion for Young Children

6/5/2017
champion

Susan Pace has been selected as the 2017 Pima South First Things First Champion for Young Children.The award is given to local champions who actively volunteer…

Tucson dad learns how to help son be ready for kindergarten

7/18/2016
parenting education

Miguel Cortez of Tucson has three sons, twins who are in sixth grade, and Christopher, who started kindergarten this fall. Although all of his children…

Dads play important role in social-emotional development of children

7/18/2016
Pima South

Samara hesitated at first, but with the encouragement of her dad, the toddler soon began clapping her hands and swaying to the music. She was among dozens of…

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