Family, Friend, and Neighbor care represents one of the most widely used forms of child care, yet it is frequently excluded from policy conversations and funding priorities. FFN childcare is not just a preference; it is a form of community resilience in the face of constrained resources that supports child welfare and education, allows parents to stay in the workforce, and creates jobs within the community. As sustaining resources for our communities, FFN providers must be supported with the tools, resources, and investments they need to thrive while exploring strategies to navigate the larger concerns of our childcare shortage. The Western North Carolina Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) research project, a partnership between the  NC Center for Health and Wellness(NCCHW) at UNC Asheville  and Smart Start of Transylvania County, provides critical insight into one frequently overlooked component of our regional infrastructure.

CaroNova and partners have announced the development of a major effort to ensure youth across North Carolina have increased access to the behavioral health services they need. Changing Minds: The North Carolina Youth Behavioral Health Action Plan will bring together state leaders, subject matter experts, philanthropic funders, and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan that more effectively delivers youth mental health services. On Monday, March 10, 2025, CaroNova along with partners outlined how this action plan will be developed.