First 5 LA Grantees Connect with Larger Family of Agencies at Learning Exchange

More than 100 representatives of First 5 LA grantees that provide School Readiness, Family Literacy and Community Development programs participated in a one-day networking and information-sharing workshop last Friday at the Japanese American National Museum in LA.

Called Learning Exchange Plus, the event was the first time grantees from three different initiatives gathered to discuss how to work collectively within and across initiatives.

Among the questions explored by participants were: "What are some exemplary practices emerging from the work of several grantees who are delivering services in a particular service territory?" and "What new opportunities exist among grantees from different First 5 LA funding streams for exchanging information, referring participants, coordinating services, or even collaborating on specific interventions?"

"The larger effects of our projects are relevant to understanding the wider context and impact of our work in communities, as well as among young children and their families," said Armando Jimenez, First 5 LA director of Research and Evaluation.
"These same effects may also help First 5 LA as it gears up for a different approach to evaluation in the coming year."