The St. Louis region’s four largest Head Start providers celebrated the 60th anniversary of this federal program that provides crucial educational and other services to pre-kindergarten children.
 
YWCA Metro St. Louis, Youth In Need, the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, and Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation lead a special celebration featuring leaders from the four organizations, graduates of Head Start programs who are now adults, current students and their families, and elected officials.
 
At the event held at YWCA’s South County Head Start Center, the four organizations celebrated the collective impact they have made in the lives of children and their families in the St. Louis region. In 2024 alone, these four Head Start programs have had a significant local impact:

• Nearly 5,000 children educated.
• 3,000 working parents supported.
• Nearly 860 jobs delivered.
• More than $74 million invested in local communities.

 
Thank you to the leaders and staff of JFCAC Head Start for making such a positive impact in the lives of the children and families we serve.  
 
The media coverage for this event was impressive. Below are links to a Channel 5 news story, NPR article and a partner social media post and photos that include our own Chief Executive Officer, Diana Hayes who was one of the featured speakers.
 
Channel 5 News Story- Head Start celebrates 60 years | ksdk.com
 
NPR Article - https://www.stlpr.org/education/2025-08-20/st-louis-head-start-60-years-funding-uncertainty
 
Link to event photos (Be sure to scroll all the way through. 😊) - https://photos.app.goo.gl/edVCDc8tXyAePAuCA

YWCA Metro St. Louis - Press Release - https://www.ywcastl.org/head-start-60th-anniversary-st.../
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The Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation (JFCAC) is proud to share that Taylor Miller, EZMO Transportation Coordinator, was honored as a 2025 Midwest Transit Operator Champion at the Midwest Transit Conference, held September 3–5, 2025. 

The Midwest Transit Conference brings together public transportation professionals, state leaders, and community organizations from across the region to recognize outstanding contributions in advancing accessible and reliable transportation. The Transit Operator Champion award highlights individuals who demonstrate consistent dedication, customer care, and operational excellence in serving their communities.

Taylor’s recognition reflects her role in ensuring that EZMO Transportation operates smoothly each day. From coordinating schedules to supporting drivers and helping residents access safe, dependable rides, Taylor plays a vital part in connecting individuals and families to essential needs such as healthcare, employment, education, and food resources.

​Since its launch, EZMO has continued to grow as a trusted resource for residents across Jefferson and Franklin Counties. In just the past year, the program has provided thousands of rides covering tens of thousands of miles, removing barriers for people who would otherwise struggle to reach critical services. This success is the result of a team effort, with volunteer drivers, dispatch, coordinators, and community partners all working together to expand opportunity through transportation.

At JFCAC, we know that accessible transportation is more than a ride, it’s a pathway to independence and stability. This recognition for Taylor and EZMO underscores the importance of investing in community-based solutions that remove barriers and strengthen resilience.

​Congratulations to Taylor for this honor and thank you to the entire EZMO team for the dedication and collaboration that keep our communities moving forward.