Child and Family Network Centers provides free and fully accredited preschool education and family support, literacy, job training, and health programs to families in Alexandria and Arlington.

Synopsis:

The Child and Family Network Centers (CFNC) is a stronger and more effective organization than it was in 2001. CFNC continues to be a leader in addressing early childhood development and has become a catalyst for action in Northern Virginia. Its effectiveness and sustainability have increased as well. CFNC has expanded both the reach and depth of its programs, added key leadership senior positions, and established innovative partnerships with the city of Alexandria and Arlington County.

Key Accomplishments

CFNC's greater effectiveness led to an almost 100% increase in the number of children served from 120 to 218 over four years and program expansion into two new neighborhoods. CFNC greatly increased the impact of its programs by transitioning all remaining half-day programs to full-day, and adding health services and financial literacy programs. CFNC maintained and/or attained accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children at all locations. It has been recognized as a model program by Montgomery County Department of Human Services and the Maryland Department of Education. CFNC's students' average overall developmental growth far exceeded the national average, particularly for children whose first language was not English. Other noteworthy accomplishments that contributed to improved capacity and increased effectiveness include:

• Planning and Focus: Completed business planning in early 2003 resulting in a detailed expansion plan to open new sites, strengthen existing programs, and add new programs. Rebuilt a stronger, more engaged board united around new growth plans.

• Human Capital-Board and Management: Added a Chief Operating Officer and Development Director, transitioned to a management team structure, and clarified roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.

• Outcome Assessment: Adopted The Rensselaerville Institute's model outcome approach to achieve and define key outcomes to be measured on an organization-wide basis.

• Increased Visibility: Receipt of $500 thousand Families Count award from Annie E. Casey Foundation highlights achievement on a national scale.

Key Information

Date, years, and stage of VPP Investment:	December 2001; 3.7 years (later-stage; fully funded)
Capital committed and disbursed by VPP:	$600,363 committed and funded
Estimated children to be served in 2010:	505
Revenue increase & % budget growth:	$1.1 to $2.6 million - 140% increase in 4 years
Leveraged funding:	$1.3 million
Expansion to new places and coverage:	7 classrooms, 4 sites, 1 Alexandria neighborhood