Head Start & Early Head Start

About Friends of Children and Families (FCF)

FCF is the non-profit organization that operates the Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Ada and Elmore counties in Southwest Idaho. Over 100 staff work with and for children at Head Start Centers in Boise, Meridian, Mountain Home and Glenn's Ferry.

Head Start is a federally funded early childhood program that recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. It is designed for children who are 3-5 years of age.

Early Head Start is a federally funded program providing assistance to pregnant mothers and children 0-3 years of age.

The “Fish” Philosophy

There's a great place in Seattle called the Pike Place Fish Market. Why is it a great place? Because they truly enjoy what they do, and they share that fun with their customers (and everyone else, too!).

FCF believes that our work, while important, should also be fun. Because we like the fish market so much, and all the fun they have, we have developed our own "Fish Philosophy" so we can have lots of fun too.

Core Commitments Philosophy

Acceptance

· Inclusiveness

· Diversity

· Respect For All

· Friendliness

· Share/Access For All

· Be Real/Honest

Wellness

· Have Fun/Play

· Health/Safety

· Feel Good/Enjoy What We Do

· Self Esteem/Worth

· Nutrition

· Self Reliance

· Believe In Your Self

Excellence

· Strength-based

· Maximize Learning

· Leaders/Innovators

· Reflective Continuous Improvement

Text Box: The Executive Director and the Deputy Director are the organization leaders responsible for devising and implementing goals and strategies for FCF, and reporting on progress made to the Board of Directors.

The Policy Council is the parents' voice and representation in the Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Their committees work closely with the management team to ensure the smooth day-to-day operation of the organization, and they
have decision-making authority in many areas.

Text Box: The Management Team is responsible for implementing policy and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the different content and support areas within the organization.

Text Box: The Board of Directors is responsible for oversight of the Executive Team, and through them, the entire organization.

Executive Leadership

Management Team

Policy Council

Board of Directors

About Us