The Abe Scharff YMCA

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Abe Scharff YMCA 254 South Lauderdale Memphis, TN 38126 (901) 521-9622 EMAIL flondon@ymcamemphis.org TThe Abe Scharff YMCA facility houses the Administrative Offices for the YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South Head Start Program. Two centers serve as the sites for 160 enrollees—40 at the Scharff YMCA and 120 at the Davis YMCA. The Head Start Program is under the leadership of Dr. Forestene L. London, Head Start Director. A combined total of 33 head Start employees provide comprehensive services that include Child Health and Development Services, Education and Early Childhood Development, Child Health and Safety, Child Nutrition, Child Mental Health, Disabilities, Family Partnerships, Community Partnerships, and Program Governance. Several unique features distinguish the YMCA Head Start Program. The first is its flexibility in program design. Flexibility is not an option—it is a requirement. Program flexibility assures that children and families with diverse needs have a place in their community’s Head Start program. The second unique feature addresses its comprehensive nature, grounded in environmental enrichment, including the fields of social services, education and health. The third distinct feature emphasizes parent involvement both on administrative policy committees and in their children’s education. The fourth outstanding feature is its 3 Star status for both centers awarded by the Department of Human Services. Since its beginning in 2002, both centers have retained it 3 Star status of excellence, and continues to promote quality service is all areas. A fifth unique feature is its participation in the Ready, Set, Grow Initiative supported and promoted by Mayor A.C. Wharton of Memphis, Tennessee. In addition to the Head Start Director, the Administrative Staff include: Janelle Smith, Center Director, Thomas Davis YMCA Head Start Center Hazel Moore, Nutrition/Education/Health & Safety Coordinator Dale Grant, Family & Community Partnerships/Health/Disabilities Coordinator Michelle Alexander, Family & Community Partnerships Specialist Shelly Harrell-Herring, Family & Community Partnerships Specialist Latoya Washington, Family & Community Partnerships Specialist Additional staff include 8 teacher, 10 teacher assistants, 1 clerical assistant, 2 building service technicians, 3 food service workers, 1 bus driver and 1 bus monitor. The YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South Head Start is the place to be—it is a place where “no child is left behind’ and a place where “We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.” to top h o m e ... i n f o ... b r a n c h e s ... l i n k s

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