The Quarterly: Winter 2026
Progress, Partnership, & Promise: Ellyn’s Insights
Dear Friends,
I’m filled with gratitude and pride for the impact we continue to make together across Georgia. When I look at our newly released annual report, Stronger Together: Empowering Georgia's Children, Families, and Educators, I see a powerful reminder of what’s possible when dedicated staff, partners, families, and supporters rally around a shared commitment to children and the early childhood professionals who care for them.
Over the past year, we’ve seen that collective impact in very real ways. This quarter, QCC was featured on 11Alive, shining a light on an issue that resonates with so many families: student parents should not have to choose between their education and reliable, quality child care.
We’re especially grateful to the partners, families, and legislators who came together to preserve funding for CCAMPIS (Child Care Access Means Parents in School). Because of that leadership, student parents can continue their education while their children have access to safe, nurturing, high-quality care. It reflects a growing understanding that reliable child care is not just an economic support — it’s part of a true two-generation strategy that nurtures children’s healthy development while giving parents the opportunity to learn, grow, and build lasting stability for their families.
Advocacy remains central to our mission. QCC was a proud partner of Strolling Thunder, and our Georgia Parent Power team was honored to be there alongside families, helping connect parents to resources in their own communities and facilitating visits with legislators at the Capitol. Organized by our friends at GEEARS, this special day brings children and parents to the State Capitol to share their stories and hopes for stronger early learning and family support policies. It’s always a meaningful reminder that behind every policy decision are real families and real futures - and that their voices matter.
Community connection is also at the heart of everything we do. Through volunteer events and generous donations, we’ve been able to extend our reach, providing essential resources, encouragement, and hands-on support to child care programs and families across Georgia. To every volunteer and donor, thank you. Your generosity truly makes a difference.
And finally, I hope you’ll save the date for our 2026 Early Start Breakfast — one of our most meaningful gatherings of the year. This inspiring morning brings together advocates, educators, families, business leaders, and policymakers to spotlight critical issues in early childhood and spark collective action. I would love to see you there!
Best,
Ellyn Cochran
President and CEO
