Rutland County Parent Child Center

Program Overview

Organizational Overview: The Rutland County Parent Child Center (RCPCC) helps people transform their lives with Whole Family services delivered through a unique and dynamic community framework of integrated programming. Our highest goal is to enhance the local community in ways that make every individual feel valued. We deliver community, resources, knowledge and support that enables families to thrive. We believe that, despite the benefits of high-quality early education programs, children often struggle into adulthood if parents are unsupported. Moreover, today's teens are the next decade's parents so we equip those who are struggling with the tools to become healthy and prosperous adults. With our families, we co-create social capital, education, health and economic options, serving 1500 individuals per year with programs including:

Early Childhood Education: literacy, executive functioning skills and kindergarten-readiness through 4 STARS-rated programming on 2 campuses, full day/year-round, no co-pay, with family support.

Gaining Ground: family literacy and executive functioning skills development in a combined group and individual setting, with weekly community meals, personalized coaching and career support.

Children's Integrated Services: early intervention for developmentally delayed and/or medically needy children from birth to 3 years and family support for families with children to age 6.

Learning Together: supporting pregnant, parenting or at-risk youth seeking a diploma with an alternative educational environment and wrap-around services.

NatureWorks: provides at-risk youth (up to 24 yrs) affected by childhood trauma with a transformative educational experience that fuses academic and job training with therapeutic activities in a 150-acre farm and forest setting.

Parenting classes: weekly facilitated groups provide skills development through Strengthening Families approaches. Light meals provided.

Food security and concrete supports: a free food pantry offering a wide variety of nutritious food including local vegetables and breads, a free store offering baby care and feminine hygiene products, and transportation support for participants

Across programs, RCPCC integrates: education; case management; family support; employment services; community development; financial and transportation support; service coordination and referrals; childcare; early intervention support, home visits, and trauma-informed care.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

CD, 27 yrs old: "They were there through the whole journey, wiping the tears off my face when close to giving up ... There's no you, there's no me, there's just us. My family and the help we received gives me something to believe in … It's 2019, I think a lot about the Vermont 75 years ago when all farmers needed a big garden to survive. RCPCC to me is a garden, my garden where things are bound to grow."

LG - 16 yrs old: "The teachers and staff are awesome, they always come in with a smile. They make you feel loved and welcomed. When I first came here I was reckless, now today I
look back in surprise on how much the RCPCC has changed me. They give you suggestions. When you do work here they don't push or rush you. They let you move at your own pace. They are honest and respectful to every student. The RCPCC is the best school ever."