What It Means to Be “Rooted in Community”
When it comes to raising children, no one should have to go it alone. Smart Start of New Hanover County knows that strong communities grow strong families.
Being rooted in community means we are here for families. We work with local partners, parents, educators, and neighbors to ensure every child in our county gets the strong start they deserve.
How We Support Local Families
Early childhood success begins with accessible support. That’s why we offer free and low-cost programs for families with children ages 0–5—right here in New Hanover County.
Programs That Meet You Where You Are
- Kaleidoscope Play & Learn: Free weekly playgroups that build school readiness and social skills
- Free Book Access: Support early literacy at home
- Child Care Resources: Help finding and affording high-quality care
- Bilingual and culturally responsive support for diverse families
“The playgroups helped my child grow and helped me feel less alone.” – Local Parent, Wilmington, NC
Community Partnerships That Make Us Stronger
We don’t do this work alone. Our impact multiplies through deep local collaboration.
We Partner With:
- New Hanover County Libraries
- Public and private schools
- Pediatricians and health clinics
- Local nonprofits and churches
- Family-friendly employers
- Wilmington Housing Authority
- Faith leaders and neighborhood groups
“Smart Start is a partner we can count on.”
— Regional Health Navigator, Cape Fear Clinic
These partnerships ensure that no matter where a family turns, there’s a friendly face and helpful hand waiting.
Local Impact, Real Results
Our impact proves we’re community-rooted.
In the past year, we’ve:
- Served thousands of families in New Hanover County
- Delivered more than 71,500 books to local children through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and other early literacy initiatives
- Held hundreds of Kaleidoscope Play & Learn sessions
- Supported over 500 child care providers with training and classroom tools
- Connected families to almost 400 community resources
See more in our Annual Impact Report
Community Voices
“It’s more than just programs—it’s people who listen, understand, and walk with you.”
— Tamika, Parent and Volunteer
“I used to feel overwhelmed as a new parent. Now I feel confident and connected.”
— Luis, Dad of Two, Carolina Beach
From Reddit:
“It’s hard to raise kids when you don’t have a village. I wish there were more community resources near me.” (Reddit Parenting Thread)
- Reddit: “Parenting without a village” thread
- Quora: Best community resources for parents
- Pinterest board: Community parenting ideas
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use Smart Start services?
Any family, caregiver, or educator of a child under age 5 in New Hanover County.
Are your services free?
Yes! Many of our programs are completely free, and others are low-cost thanks to grants and funding.
How can I volunteer or donate?
Visit our Get Involved page to learn how to support early childhood in New Hanover County.
Do you partner with local businesses and agencies?
Absolutely. Lasting change happens through collaboration.
Final Thoughts: Growing Together
At Smart Start, we are part of the community. Our roots run deep in New Hanover County, and every program, event, and partnership is grounded in one purpose: helping children thrive by supporting the people and places that raise them. Because when we grow together, we grow stronger.
Ready to Connect?
Reach out to explore programs, resources, or ways to collaborate.
Contact Us
725 Wellington Avenue, Suite A, Wilmington, NC
(910) 815-3731