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The Dance of Balancing Local and State Partners in North Carolina

Part of the Critical Connections Podcast Season 1 Podcast
September 28, 2021

Host Karen Ponder dives into the first formal statewide early childhood system in the nation: North Carolina’s Smart Start, which she herself managed for its first 15 years. She speaks with Amy Cubbage, president of the North Carolina Partnership for Children (NCPC), and Gayle Headen, executive director of Wake County Smart Start.

La presentadora Karen Ponder destaca el primer sistema formal de la primera infancia a nivel estatal en la nación: Smart Start de North Carolina, el cual ella misma administró durante sus primeros 15 años. Karen habla con Amy Cubbage, presidenta de North Carolina Partnership for Children (NCPC), y Gayle Headon, directora ejecutiva de Wake County Smart Start.

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Connecting the Dots: Holistic Help for Women and Children Experiencing Homelessness

Blog July 27, 2026

At a time when marginalized populations are more vulnerable than ever, it’s inspiring to hear from individuals who have prevailed over dire circumstances. Their stories give us hope. The formerly homeless single mothers spotlighted here are resolute and resourceful. But they’d be the first to say that they likely wouldn’t be where they are today without the supports they received along the way.