Renita Wolf

I am a longtime volunteer and donor for the Community Partnership for Child Development (CPCD) and serving as chairperson for its board of directors.

CPCD is an organization through which all young children and their families can realize their full potential in a safe, healthy, accepting, learning-centered community.

The birth of my niece raised my awareness of the plight of young children in my community.

More than 10,000 children under age 6 are living in poverty in El Paso County, Colorado. These children are more likely to drop out of school, commit crimes, become teen parents and depend upon public assistance. I volunteer at CPCD because investing in children ages birth to five will ensure a brighter future for them and our community, and it’€™s the right thing to do.

CPCD provides over 2,000 children living in poverty or challenged by special circumstances with an early childhood education through three core programs -€“ Head Start, Early Head Start, the Colorado Preschool Program – and a community-funded preschool classroom. CPCD programs meet the needs of both children and their parents or caregivers. This two-generation program provides opportunities to build a foundation of education, economic supports, social capital and health and wellbeing and create a legacy of economic security that passes from one generation to the next.

Older workers can bring their life experiences and networks to serving others. For example, I bring my business experience in fulfilling my role as a board member. As a volunteer I have been successful connecting CPCD with community members who partner with CPCD and/or donate to the mission.