Audubon Area Community Services is inviting the public to join in celebrating the 60th anniversary of the national Head Start program with a special event at 9:30 AM Thursday, May 16, at Christian County Head Start, 1355 Glass Avenue in Hopkinsville.
This milestone event will feature refreshments, remarks from local leaders and elected officials, and guided tours of the Head Start facility — offering a unique opportunity to see firsthand how the program is transforming lives in the community.
Launched in 1965, Head Start is a cornerstone of early childhood education, health and family services for low-income families. Designed to give children that “head start” in life, the program helps break the cycle of poverty by ensuring kids are ready to succeed in school and beyond.
Dana Myers, Local Area Manager for Christian County Head Start, said called it more than just early education — “it’s a lifeline.”
Audubon Area Community Services operates Head Start programs across 16 counties, serving nearly 1,800 children each year. The Christian County location is one of its largest, with 200 children enrolled annually and a staff dedicated to nurturing the whole child — academically, socially and emotionally.
While serving the primary seven-county Green River Area District (Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union & Webster counties), Audubon Area also serves Barren River, Cumberland, Pennyrile, Purchase, Lincoln Trail and Salt River areas with more than $70 million in funding with more than 600 employees.
Studies show every $1 spent on Head Start yields up to $9 in long-term economic benefits — from higher graduation rates to reduced crime and social services costs. It also supports working families by providing vital childcare and health resources.
To learn more or attend the celebration, contact Faith Holley at 270-686-1683 or faholley@audubon-area.com.
