When Carol first found Giraffe Laugh, she was looking for accessible, affordable preschool care for her 4-year-old son. Nearly two years later, what began as a practical need has grown into a community her family deeply values.
“When I first found the preschool, I was so thankful for its location and for the ability to pay with scholarships. Now that I’ve been a part of this community for almost two years, I am even more thankful for so many more reasons.”
During a time when Carol’s family was struggling financially, that support extended beyond the classroom.
“When my family was struggling financially, Giraffe Laugh was able to continue providing care for my son. When our pantries were a little sparse, Giraffe Laugh and their coordinating organizations were able to provide us with a little extra to help us get through.”
Today, her family is in a position to give back.
“Thankfully, we are no longer in that space, and we can help Giraffe Laugh provide the same community services to others who need a little support.”
For Carol, it has become a full-circle experience, receiving support when her family needed it and now helping make that same support possible for others.
Seeing the Impact as a Teacher and a Parent
“As a teacher myself, I love coming into the space and seeing what is available to the students. The teachers are so kind, creative, and able to really teach the kids so much through play. I know every single one of these teachers gives my kid, and all the kids, so much love.
Teachers are taking evidence-backed strategies and implementing them into the curriculum in a fun and playful way.”
Making Learning Accessible to Every Child
“As a music teacher, I approached Annie last summer about creating a music program for preschoolers. I wanted to be able to provide something fun, engaging, and immensely valuable to the students, and the best way I know how is to teach music.
My values align with Giraffe Laugh so closely. It was very important to me that I could provide this service to every child, regardless of the family’s ability to pay.
Music is not to be gate-kept. It is important for everyone.”
I love being able to work with Giraffe Laugh and their leaders to make sure music is something every student has access to.”
Through her music program, Carol is now helping give other Giraffe Laugh children the same sense of opportunity and belonging her own family experienced.
“It is my hope and desire to continue to provide this service, even long after my preschooler has moved into elementary school. Giraffe Laugh is a wonderful program doing a lot of amazing work in local communities.”
Her story is a reminder of what can happen when families have access not only to quality early education, but also to a community that supports them through different seasons of life.
Sometimes a family needs a scholarship. Sometimes they need a little extra food in the pantry. Sometimes they simply need to know someone is there.
And sometimes, when circumstances change, the families who were once supported become the people extending that support to someone else.
That’s how stronger communities, and stronger futures, continue to grow.
