Tanaina Child Development Center Inc

Overview

Tanaina Child Development Center Inc is a nonprofit organization located in Anchorage, Alaska, dedicated to providing quality early childhood education and care for children aged 18 months to 6 years. The center operates with the aim of fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development through play-based learning and individualized attention.

History

Founded to support the educational needs of young children, Tanaina Child Development Center faced challenges when it lost its leased space at the University of Alaska Anchorage in 2015. After a two-year search for a permanent facility, the center found a new home on the campus of Alaska Regional Hospital, thanks to a collaborative effort involving the National Cooperative Bank, the Rasmuson Foundation, and community support. The new facility includes 9,000 square feet of indoor space and 38,000 square feet for outdoor play, significantly enhancing their capacity to serve the community[1].

Programs and Services

Tanaina Child Development Center focuses on an emergent and integrated curriculum that emphasizes various developmental domains, including physical, cognitive, language, literacy, and social-emotional growth. The center recognizes each child as an individual, tailoring educational experiences to meet unique interests and needs. The center offers both full-time and part-time care throughout the year, catering to families in Anchorage and surrounding areas[2][3].

Core Values

The center's core values emphasize creating a safe and nurturing environment where every child is celebrated for their uniqueness. Tanaina encourages respect for diversity, promoting partnerships with families and the community to support children’s learning and development[2].

Financial Information

As of 2023, Tanaina Child Development Center reported total revenue of approximately $1.49 million, with expenses of about $1.18 million, resulting in total assets of $1.8 million. The organization primarily funds its operations through program services and contributions, ensuring financial sustainability as it continues to serve the community[4].

Impact and Community Engagement

Tanaina Child Development Center plays a vital role in the Anchorage community by increasing access to quality early childhood education and providing critical support for families. The expansion to a permanent location has allowed the center to double its enrollment capacities, thus enhancing its service provision to the community[1][5].

Through its commitment to child development and family partnerships, Tanaina Child Development Center Inc remains a cornerstone of early childhood education in Anchorage, fostering a love of learning and supporting the growth of young children.