Chattanooga 2.0 and members of its Early Matters action team endeavor to make Hamilton County, TN an early learning community.  To achieve this, parents and caregivers must be supported as leaders and partners and heard when it comes to what will work best for their families and communities.

Early Childhood Neighborhood Councils are groups of parents and caregivers of young children who come together to share their voices, support one another, and help shape a stronger community for families. Council members meet regularly to learn new skills, discuss the needs of young children in their neighborhood, and take action through projects and advocacy. Each council is led by parents, for parents—creating a space where families are valued as leaders and partners in building an early learning community where every child can thrive.

Alton Park Neighborhood Council Highlights: 

• Runs September 2025 – July 2026
• Local facilitator
• 10-12 parents; paid $50 per council meeting; meal + onsite child care provided
• Take a parent class of the council’s choice
• Photo voice or comparable project to visually capture the barriers young children face when it comes to living in an early learning community 
• Funded neighborhood project
• Advocacy training
• Advocacy practice