A community of practice for Head Start and Early Head Start Communications and Development professionals who lead storytelling, outreach, brand strategy, donor engagement, and public visibility for their programs.
Communications and Development leaders play a critical role in shaping how our programs are understood, funded, and supported. From strengthening community relationships to elevating the voices of children, families, and staff, strategic communications directly impact sustainability and growth. In an evolving media and funding landscape, it is essential that we stay ahead of emerging trends, refine our messaging, and learn from one another. HSW believes that strong storytelling and strategic outreach are fundamental to advancing the mission and long-term success of high impact organizations.
This community of practice includes Communications Directors and Managers, Development Directors, Marketing and Outreach Coordinators, Public Information Officers, Fundraising and Advancement Leads, and professionals responsible for brand, media, and donor engagement within Head Start and Early Head Start programs.
In 2026, Head Start WEST will host three one-hour virtual learning sessions in March, June, and September. These sessions will be facilitated by Lauren Lawson-Zilai and will focus on professional development, peer sharing, and emerging trends in the field.
To ensure this network meets your needs, participants are asked to complete a brief survey to help determine session topics, dates, and times. Additional details and scheduling information will be shared once survey responses are reviewed.
Complete the survey here.
Registration for the Communications Network in 2026 will gain you access to all three Community of Practice sessions throughout the year. Please note: all sessions scheduled for 2026 will take place virtually over Zoom. You will receive join information closer to session dates.
Member Pricing: $159.00 Per Person
Non Member Pricing: $179.00 Per Person
I have been to management workshops, not leadership training. This has totally changed my perspective and encouraged me to propel forward in developing my skills.
I am honored and humbled to be a recipient of the Head Start WEST’s Legacy Scholarship. The scholarship helped me get one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a Head Start Director. Â
I took part in The disproportionate impact of COVID 19, and how to provide “real” support for black/brown children and families and I just want to say this was an amazing webinar. I hope we can look forward to further conversation on this topic.
Thank you so much for making events like this! I really enjoyed and learned so much teaching strategies to implement STEM in the classroom.
The HR Network was an excellent opportunity to network and learn the best practices from other HR professionals within Head Start programs. You will be amazed by the level of talent and experience of the participants.
The Summer Camp training was powerful and inspiring! Each presenter was very engaging, it’s hard to even pick a favorite session!
The Leadership Challenge training was very relevant to my work as a Head Start leader! Great facilitation; stayed with the program yet allowed time for individual and small group reflections.
Regular price $12.00
Regular price $39.00
Questions? Contact us at headstartr9@region9hsa.org.
