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Verner is a nonprofit agency providing high quality, affordable early care and education to over 300 children – birth to five years old – throughout Buncombe County, North Carolina every year. Verner also has an extended impact on families and the community through the countless programs offered and the economic impact of the education we provide. Reports from the National Forum on Early Childhood Policy and Programs (and other sources, too), show that for every $1 invested in prenatal and early childhood development yields a $7 return into society. We invest in educational and developmental resources for all families to provide equal access to successful early development. Focusing on this development allows children to develop cognitive and social skills early on – in the first 2,000 days – when it matters most.  Focused early development allows children’s brains to function and participate in effective education and learning through adulthood. When children and adults are more capable or learning, society gains more capable, productive and in-demand citizens that make positive contributions, passed down for generations to come. In the recent years, the studies showing the importance of development in the first 2,000 days of life have become abundant. We now know further about why the human brain develops more rapidly between birth and age five than during any other subsequent period. The Wisconsin Council on Children and Families compiled the following research about the neuroscience of brain development unfolding: “(1) the way a brain develops hinges on the complex interplay between the genes a person is born with and the experiences a person has from birth on; (2) it actually takes up to 12 years for the brain to become fully organized, with parts of the cortex still to become organized through the later teen years; (3) the quality of an infant’s relationship with his or her primary caregivers has a decisive impact on the architecture of the brain, affecting the nature and extent of adult capabilities; and (4) early interactions directly affect the way the brain is “wired,” and do not merely create a context for development.” We know more about why the first 2,000 days are crucial, but how exactly is Verner making a difference during this time of development? Our nine core values are listed and explained below. These values are present every day in every interaction between Verner the children and families of Buncombe County and the surrounding areas. • Diversity: we believe that a rich learning environment is created when all types of people join together with a common vision. • Play: we believe that play ignites curiosity, enables us to become better explorers and problem solvers, builds stronger relationships, and leads to transformation. • Respect: we believe that each person has the right to be treated with dignity, always. • Community: we believe that by providing a safe, welcoming environment, all who enter here feel they have a place where their time, knowledge, experiences, and needs are valued. • Communication: we believe that trustworthy partnerships are only built through authentic and consistent communication. • Excellence: we believe it is the product of an unyielding passion for our mission combined with intentional professional development, hard work, diligence, and consistency which can be emulated by others. • Collaboration: we believe that through strong partnerships we build trust, increase effectiveness and resources, and are more impactful in our work. • Integrity: we believe in an uncompromising commitment to a high code of honor supported by strong ethical principles. • Caring: we believe that expressing genuine concern about the needs and feelings of others is a key component of a strong community. Want more specifics about Verner, our programs, curriculum, nutrition program, locations or anything else? Send an email to rcaro@verneremail.org.
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