About the Early Learning and Development Center
The Early Learning and Development Center (ELDC) at Northern Arizona University is a cornerstone of support for young children, families, and future educators. As a high-quality early learning program and a hands-on lab school, the ELDC models exemplary practices for families, preservice teachers, and disciplines across NAU.
Today, however, the Center faces an urgent challenge. As federal grants decline and are set to end this September, critical funding that supports childcare assistance for student-parents is disappearing. Nationally, more than 71% of student-parents are considered low-income, and childcare is the number one barrier to completing a degree. Donor support is essential to sustaining access, maintaining high-quality services, and ensuring that this vital resource continues to serve our community.
Make an Impact Today
Your gift to the Early Childhood Education Center can make an immediate and meaningful difference. The ELDC currently serves 40 families, including 55 NAU students—20 of whom are student-parents balancing coursework, careers, and caregiving responsibilities.
On NAU Giving Day, your collective support makes a meaningful impact:
$5,000 Raised can...
- Fund two student workers from the College of Education for a semester, offering valuable, job-embedded professional development and on-site coaching aligned with their career pathways.
$10,000 Raised can...
- Support the enrollment of new student-parent families by providing reduced childcare tuition for 2–3 families.
It Takes a Village
Ever hear that saying, "It takes a village to raise a child?" It's more true now than ever.
Your generosity helps preserve the quality, access, and impact of the ELDC—ensuring children receive exceptional care while student-parents and future educators thrive. Hear directly from a degree-seeking parent at NAU about ELDC's impact:
“I feel incredibly blessed to have the support of the ELDC and their scholarship program while pursuing my ABSN degree at NAU. This program has made a significant impact on my journey by ensuring that my children are in a safe and nurturing environment while I focus on my education. It has also helped my family manage our finances, reducing the stress of childcare costs. Most importantly, it has given me the opportunity to complete my degree and advance my career, ultimately increasing my job prospects and securing a better future for my family. I am truly grateful for this support!" - Student parent at NAU
Thank You for Your #AxeofKindness
Thank you for your Giving Day generosity! Your support helps ensure that student-parents have the support they need to pursue their degrees, that children continue to receive high-quality early education, and that future educators gain the experience they need to succeed.
We are deeply grateful for your commitment to our community!
