The Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance (ECCLA) is a collective impact leader with strong relationships among all of Colorado’s 35 Early Childhood Councils serving all 64 counties. We are a collective voice and statewide hub that leverages the expertise and network of Early Childhood Councils to advance shared outcomes for young children, families, and the early childhood workforce.
In addition to supporting Colorado's 35 Early Childhood Councils through advocacy, professional development, and technical support, ECCLA also provides scholarships and grant funding to early childhood providers across the state through programs like:
In 2024, ECCLA provided several professional development opportunities that were open to the public including:
ECCLA staff also provided services like coaching, support with strategic planning, and workshops focused on topics like cost of care in early learning programs, risk management, family engagement, active supervision, kindergarten readiness, and more!
ECCLA advocates for and strengthens the accessibility, quality, and equity of local services and supports through a responsive statewide system of Early Childhood Councils, to benefit Colorado’s young children, their families, and early childhood professionals.
ECCLA works to ensure that every child in Colorado has a strong start in life. We believe that strong families and communities, access to comprehensive physical and mental health care, and high quality early care and learning opportunities help ensure every child can reach his or her full potential. ECCLA is the membership association for Colorado's network of 35 community-based Early Childhood Councils that reaches all 64 counties. This statewide network of locally organized Councils is responsible for improving and sustaining the quality, availability, capacity, and accessibility of early childhood services for children and families in local communities.
Our work is critical because the earliest years of a child's life are uniquely important--this is the most sensitive period for brain development. The experiences a child has during this time will shape the architecture of the brain and build connections that contribute to lifelong skills like problem solving, communication, self control, and relationship building. These skills provide a strong foundation and support children to thrive within their family, community, and culture. Safe environments, protective and loving relationships, and access to care all foster healthy development. Early investment in the health and well-being of Colorado's youngest children leads to healthy thriving adults who contribute to a thriving Colorado.
Colorado is both fortunate and unique to have local Early Childhood Councils that focus on increasing the quality of early care and learning programs and environments; expanding family resources and skills; and ensuring access to social, physical, and mental health services for young children. Councils increase the effectiveness of early childhood professionals with training, coaching, and resources, which, in turn, helps children be prepared for kindergarten. Significantly, Councils are committed to closing the achievement gap for children who face multiple barriers, including those living in low-income families, by increasing the number and percentage of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers enrolled in high quality early care and learning programs.
Organization name
Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance
other names
ECCLA
2012
Tax id (EIN)
46-1020675
Category
Community Improvement & Capacity Building
Organization Size
Large Organization
Address
7850 Vance Dr. Suite 280CO, US