The YMCA of Greater Nashua Honored with
Presidents’ Community Partner Award by Campus Compact for New Hampshire.

(L-R) Barry Garside – Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs at NCC, Elizabeth Witmer – Early Education Center Childcare Director, Michael LaChance – CEO of YMCA of Greater Nashua, & Lynne Boyer – Executive Director of Community Impact

This award is giving to a non-profit organization who has enhanced the quality of life in the community in meaningful and measurable ways and engaged in the development of sustained, reciprocal partnerships with a college or university.

In Spring 2023, the YMCA of Greater Nashua initiated a transformative partnership with Nashua Community College (NCC) to enhance services for the local community. Recognizing the pressing need for Early Childhood Education (ECE) instructors and the accessibility gap for ECE professionals, both organizations collaborated on a plan. This initiative led to the launch of a three-class ECE certificate program at the Merrimack YMCA facility in Fall 2023, catering to YMCA ECE staff and the broader public. With funding support, including ECE grants and Early College funds, students enrolled for free, with remarkable success stories emerging by Spring 2024. Notably, one student accelerated through the program, poised to earn their ECE certificate by the semester’s end. The initiative not only addressed critical educational gaps but also fostered confidence and community among participants, especially older students who found comfort in familiar surroundings. This collaboration embodies NCC’s mission to serve the diverse needs of the community, showcasing the impactful outcomes of innovative partnerships forged by the YMCA.

About Campus Compact for New Hampshire (CCNH)

Campus Compact for New Hampshire is a statewide consortium of college and university presidents and private-sector partners who are united in their commitment to the civic purposes of higher education. Through resources, training, grants, and capacity building, we work to connect campuses and communities in ways that address pressing societal needs and improve student learning. CCNH works in close collaboration with the New Hampshire College & University Council, the New Hampshire Department of Education, Volunteer NH!, the Corporation for National & Community Service, and the national Campus Compact organization. CCNH is also sponsored by the New Hampshire Higher Education Assistance Foundation. Their mission is to serve as a catalyst for integrating community service and civic responsibility throughout academic and student life among our member institutions.

Support the impactful work of YMCA of Greater Nashua and contribute to building stronger communities through their Early Childhood Education programs. Your donation helps provide essential child care and early education opportunities that are foundational for healthy development. Together, we can empower families and strengthen our region’s communities, economy, and workforce.