The Early Opportunities Fund is all about small steps for big change.
The Early Opportunities Child Development Fund provides micro grants to projects focused on young children and families, particularly those affected by climate change, environmental issues, conflict, and displacement. It also provides mentoring and support to build capacity and leadership in the early childhood field.
Climate Action
The Climate Initative
With a mission to "empower youth voices for climate action,” The Climate Initiative has much to be proud of in their work supporting future climate leaders. You can read more in their 2021 Annual Report. This micro grant will fund programs for local climate youth action.
The Global Fund for Children (GFC) Spark Fund
The mission of the Global Fund for Children’s Spark Fund is “designed and decided by young people representing their communities.” The micro grant will support the continued expansion of this youth-led Fund as they work to promote youth action on climate issues around the world.
Upcoming 2022 Climate Action Micro Grants
In 2022, the Early Opportunities Fund will support 10 micro research grants in the Asia and Africa regions to raise awareness of the impact of the climate crises and environmental degradation on young children and families, including the Africa Early Childhood Network and the Asia Pacific Regional Network for Early Childhood. Stay tuned!
Service Projects
West Retreat Basic School
The West Retreat Basic School in Port Antonio, Jamaica provides preschool services to young children in the West Retreat community. The school is partially supported by the Neville Beharie Family, in memory of Samuel and Clara Beharie.
Maternity Care Coalition
The mission of Maternity Care Coalition (MCC) is to improve the health and well-being of pregnant women and parenting families and enhance school readiness for children 0-3. Recently, MCC established the Lillian Sugarman Loyal Giving Society to honor donors who have given for three or more consecutive years in support of this mission. In addition to uplifting our loyal donors, this society was created to honor Lillian Sugarman (1941 - 2021). Lillian served as a member of MCC's board of directors from 2018 - 2021 and on the Early Head Start committee beginning in 2015. She brought with her a passion for serving her community, and a true warmth for every staff member client she encountered.
Capacity-Building
Alliance for Early Childhood Development, Nepal (AECDN)
In Nepal, AECDN works as a proactive civil society organization that creates opportunities for effective collaboration among relevant stakeholders to promote high-quality early childcare and education.