In 2005 the Commission selected  Early Learning Opportunities (ELO) as the primary focus area for funding.

Strategic Planning Process: Between March-December 2006 more than 1,000 individuals from diverse communities in Monterey County participated with their voices, experiences, and perspectives in the design of the Commission’s new focus on Early Learning Opportunities. 

Strategic Planning Framework: Through this participatory strategic planning process the community defined three visions that reflect the needs and aspirations of families in Monterey County as well as outcomes to achieve the visions.  Additionally, the community identified Essential Program Characteristics for successful programs. The Strategic Plan at a Glance visually depicts the outcomes of the strategic planning process that is outlined in the Strategic Plan Framework. The Strategic Planning Framework lays the groundwork for the new Strategic Plan, which will be completed by December 2007.

On April 30, 2007 the Commission approved funding for selected Funded Partners who responded to the ELO Community Grant Application and staff was directed to assess and identify additional gaps in funding (see the April 30, 2007 Regular Commission Meeting minutes for details).

As a result of the gap analysis on literacy, on July 23, 2007, the Commission approved funding to the Community Foundation for the Literacy Campaign for calendar year 2008. Staff continues to work on the other gap analyses.