Kidango

Kidango is a private, not-for-profit child development agency located in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. Established in 1979, it has become a leading provider of early education and support services for children and families in Northern California, especially in East Bay and Santa Clara County.

Mission and Programs

The mission of Kidango is to ensure that every child is on a path to thrive in school and life. It achieves this through a range of programs including:

• Early Learning Services: Kidango operates over 50 preschool and child care centers, providing comprehensive early education programs such as preschool, infant and toddler care, Head Start, and Early Head Start[1][2].
• Early Intervention and Behavioral Health Services: The organization offers early intervention services for children with special needs, as well as behavioral health services and mental health consultations[1][3].
• Family Childcare Homes: These provide a home-based setting for care with individualized curricula for children of various ages[1].
• Nutrition Program: Kidango prepares thousands of healthy meals daily to support the nutritional needs of the children in their care[2][3].

Impact and Recognition

Kidango serves over 4,000 children daily, with a significant portion of families receiving services at no cost or at a reduced rate, reflecting its commitment to underserved communities[2]. The organization is recognized for its quality programs, with 33% of its centers accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), a prestigious recognition for excellence in early childhood education[1].

Funding and Operations

Kidango is financially supported by donations from individuals, foundations, and government agencies. It operates with a large team of staff and is highly regarded for its financial transparency and management, earning a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator[4][5].

Awards and Accolades

Kidango has been listed by the Inclusion Collaborative for its experience in supporting children with special needs, further highlighting its dedication to inclusive education practices[1]. Its commitment to providing high-quality, accessible services has made it a trusted partner in the Bay Area's early education sector.