After almost two years of work, the Valentine, Children and Families Coalition has taken a giant step by hiring a full time coordinator. A former Valentine resident, who has experience in this field, Sonia Coates was recently hired to fill the coordinator position and began her duties on January 1st.
Almost two years ago a group of interested citizens held numerous meetings to address needs in local child care, preschool and early childhood development. After associating with the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, funding was granted to hire a local full time coordinator to assist families with resources that are available to them within our community. This position is governed by a coalition that includes the Valentine Community Schools, Cherry County Hospital, UNL Extension, Mid-Plains Community College, Economic Development, local mental health providers, and Northwest Community Action Partnership.
The coalition has secured office space at the former Advanced Pet Care building on East Highway 20 for the coordinator to serve the community. Sonia can be reached at 402-252-9030.
