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Region Stories from Navajo Nation

These stories illustrate how early childhood programs and services funded by First Things First make a difference for young children and families in communities across Arizona.

head shot of Faith Laurence-Leslie

Faith Laurence-Leslie is the 2020 Navajo Nation Champion

  • champion

Faith Laurence-Leslie has been selected as the 2020 First Things First Navajo Nation Champion for Young Children.
woman standing in front of a presentation board

FTF College Scholarship recipient works to guide young Navajo children in the right direction

  • early childhood

The FTF Navajo Nation Regional Council is one of 15 FTF regions that supports professional development opportunities, including college scholarships.

Mother reading with daughter on the couch

Navajo Nation Growing in Beauty Program instills a love of learning in young girl

  • health and developmental screenings

“She’ll open a book when the teacher says, ‘OK, let’s read.’ It makes me happy inside to hear that about my child,” LaVedalene Guy said.
Mom and son near sunflowers

Quality First center in Fort Defiance helps 2-year-old with conversation and healthy eating habits

  • Quality First

Quality First center in Fort Defiance helps 2-year-old with conversation and healthy eating habits

Kerlissa Bitah

Kerlissa Bitah is Navajo Nation’s 2018 Champion for Young Children

  • tribal

Kerlissa Bitah has been selected as the 2018 Navajo Nation First Things First Champion for Young Children.The award is given to local champions who actively…
Mom and daughter with daughter

Quality First preschool helps Chinle preschooler gain important literacy skills

  • Quality First

Lola Wood was trying her best to get her young son Takoda interested in learning while they were together at home, but felt like he needed more motivation and…
girls-with-food

Healthy Beginnings help Navajo Nation family meal plan and prepare healthy meals

  • health & nutrition

When an injury forced Crystal Begay’s husband to leave his job, the stay-at-home mom began looking for programs and support that could help get their family…

Brandy Bridgewater is Navajo Nation’s 2017 Champion for Young Children

  • champion

Brandy Bridgewater has been selected as the 2017 Navajo Nation First Things First Champion for Young Children.The award is given to local champions who…

Scholarships help young kids access early education

  • Quality First

​​​Balancing parenthood with higher education can sometimes be overwhelming, especially if young parents are far from home. Jessica moved to Tempe from…

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