W5 Mandated Reporter Training: Helping Protect Children in Our Community

Protecting children starts with awareness—and people who are willing to act. Join us on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, for a free W5 Mandated Reporter Training at Isothermal Community College. This session will equip community members and professionals with the tools to recognize and respond to suspected child maltreatment. Event Details Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2026Time: … Continued

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Storytime Smiles: Promoting Healthy Teeth During Children’s Dental Health Month

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, a perfect time to focus on building healthy habits for our youngest learners. This month, The Partnership for Children of the Foothills is heading into local library storytimes across Polk, McDowell, and Rutherford counties to share an important message with families: healthy smiles start early. For children from … Continued

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Partnership for Children of the Foothills Announces Retirement of Executive Director Barry Gold After 26 Years of Service; Welcomes Vanessa Parton as New Executive Director

Forest City, January 8, 2026 –The Partnership for Children of the Foothills announces the retirement of longtime Executive Director Barry Gold, who is concluding an extraordinary 26-year tenure marked by transformational growth, regional collaboration, and lasting impact for children and families across Rutherford, Polk, and McDowell counties. Under Gold’s leadership, the Partnership evolved into a … Continued

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Play to Learn group takes a paws to play with animals!

Paws & Play Combine in Fun Petting Zoo Experience June 12, 2024 (Forest City, NC) – On June 4, the Play to Learn program at Partnership for Children of the Foothills hosted a petting zoo hands-on learning experience where 20 children and 23 adults combined playing with learning about little critters.  Kids enjoyed Sprinkles Mobile … Continued

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World Environment Day Celebration Ideas!

Don’t miss out on opportunities to educate your children about recycling and other ways to impact the world they live in. Having a treat will leave a lasting impression  – make this cute world parfait today! Get the full recipe here.

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Diaper Bank
A program to help families access diapers and diapering supplies when they need extra support.
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Dolly Parton Imagination Library
A program that sends free books to children every month until their 5th birthday.
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Annual Report
An in-depth look at our programs and the ways we’re helping the community.
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