Who is Early Connections?

Early Connections is a leading organization in northwestern Pennsylvania for early care and education. The agency provides direct service as well as training and planning leadership for a wide geographic region. Since 1895 Early Connections (formerly known as the YWCA) has served children and families in Erie County. Presently direct service is provided at four inner city sites in the City of Erie and one rural site in Union City. In the direct service programs at two sites children with special needs attend preschool in inclusive classrooms. Direct service includes early care and education, child care and services to families. Early Connections participates in the Keystone STARS program and its centers are at the highest level. In 2007 Early Connections began providing Pre-K Counts education programs at three inner ciry sites in partnership with the Erie School District and at the Union City site in partnership with the Union City Area School District. In 2010 Early Connections was awarded a contract for the pilot Keystone Babies program, a high quality initiative focusing on our youngest children. We invite you to please read on about our Mission and Values of the Organization.