May 4, 2017 | Vol. 3, Issue 18
Dear Washingtonians,
The first years of a child's life are incredibly important. During these first few years, children grow and develop at an astonishing rate. And we know that during this important developmental period, parents and caretakers are a child's first teacher and most important advocate. Children who have nurturing, healthy and supportive experiences in their early years are much better prepared to succeed in school and life. In addition, families who have access to reliable and affordable child care are better able to pursue opportunities that will put them on pathways to the middle class.
In recognizing how critical these early years are, this week, my Administration launched Thrive by Five DC, a new initiative that will support and empower families across the District. Becoming a new parent can be
overwhelming, and through Thrive by Five DC, we will set more families up for success
by connecting them to resources that support maternal and child health, behavioral health, and early education. At the center of the new initiative is ThriveByFive.dc.gov, is a one-stop service
center that will help parents and caretakers navigate the city’s wide range of
early health and learning resources.
In addition to launching Thrive by Five DC, my Administration is continuing our efforts to expand access to child care. We know that finding affordable, high-quality early child care can be a stressful experience for young families in DC, so my Fiscal Year 2018 Budget and Financial Plan includes a $15.3 million investment to increase access to infant and toddler child care. Over the next three years, the investment will create an additional 1,300 infant and toddler seats and support 300 DC residents gain certification as educators for infants and toddlers. And, just yesterday, I announced that on Saturday, June 3, my Administration, in partnership with the DC Bar Pro Bono Center, will host a free legal clinic to help existing and aspiring child care providers understand the rules and regulations that govern child care facilities in the District. By providing this type of support, we can give providers the knowledge they need to expand access and create more child care seats for families across the city.
As we work to expand prosperity and ensure that more Washingtonians are benefiting from our city's growth, a focus on our youngest residents will benefit the entire community. Through these investments we will set more children up for success and give more parents the resources they need to thrive in DC.
Sincerely,
Tonight, Mayor Bowser will kick off DC's third annual innoMAYtion, a month-long initiative to showcase the local innovators and entrepreneurs who are making Washington, DC a global model of inclusive innovation.
innoMAYtion is also about you - the residents of Washington, DC! We want to hear your voices and thoughts on what new approaches DC can take to solve challenges and create more opportunities for Washingtonians.
RSVP for the innoMAYtion kickoff party HERE.
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On Monday, May 8, join the Bowser Administration at DC's celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and the 30 Year Anniversary of the Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs.
The celebration will include light refreshments, an awards ceremony, and cultural performances.
RSVP for the event HERE.
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Join Mayor Bowser this Saturday at the 2017 DC Funk Parade! The DC Funk Parade is a daylong celebration of DC's music and culture and includes a day fair, parade, and music festival.
RSVP to walk with Mayor Bowser HERE.
This
week's District Minute features stories about DC College Signing Day, the Annual Salute to DC Centenarians, and Thrive by Five DC.
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 The mission of the Mayor's Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (MOAPIA) is to improve the quality of life for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders living in Washington, DC through advocacy and engagement.
MOAPIA has an opening for a Community Outreach Assistant. This position is responsible for conducting community outreach activities in order to promote DC Government programs and encourage participation in MOAPIA activities. All details regarding this vacancy, including qualifications, can be found by visiting the job announcement.
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