our mission

The Young Children and Family Programs of the Palouse, also commonly known as YCFP, works with parents, caregivers, and community partners to optimize the skills, abilities, and motivation for life-long learning and discovery in young children in the Palouse area through the provision of education, support, screening, and resource services.

we believe

When intellectual skills, social-emotional abilities, physical well-being, and the motivation to learn are present in young children, and when caregivers and the community are prepared to facilitate and support this development, the results will be academic preparedness and future success.

our values

Promotional Approach. We strive to optimize each family's competence rather than identify and fix "problem" families.

Collaboration. We work together with other agencies and organizations to share resources, time, and talents in order to reach our goals.

Community. The involvement of community and volunteers is an integral part of our programs., both in service delivery and program development and implementation.

our history

In 1997, YCF was launched in Latah County , Idaho by the Early Childhood Service Council with a demonstration grant from the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation. In 2001, services to families in Latah County were expanded under a Federal Department of Health and Human Services, Early Learning Opportunities Act (ELOA) discretionary grant.

In 2003, services were once again expanded, this time to serve families in neighboring Whitman County , Washington . Services now encompass a geographic area known as the Palouse ( Latah County , Idaho and Whitman County , Washington ). To reflect this growth, the name was changed to Young Children and Family Programs of the Palouse (YCFP). This expansion was also funded by an ELOA discretionary grant.

Palouse Industries / Early Learning Services is the fiscal agent and supporter of YCFP. In accordance with Federal regulations, an Oversight Committee comprised of parents, service providers, educators, and community leaders from both Latah and Whitman County provide guidance and direction to YCFP. The Committee communicates with the Early Childhood Service Council which is the official Advisory Board for YCFP.