Robin Matteo, director of Perinatal Services, is pleased to announce the new Verde Valley Parenting Partnership at VVMC. The mission of the program is to partner with Verde Valley parents to help meet their family needs. VVPP has established goals of fostering self-sufficiency; encouraging parent-child relationships; providing resources; addressing health, safety and developmental needs; and promoting literacy.

Through early intervention, this home-based program is designed to assure healthy growth and development for infants and toddlers through age five. Staff members will provide parenting information and education, developmental screening, professional counseling referrals, play groups and resources.

This is grant-funded program through First Things First, an organization established to help provide greater opportunities for all Arizona children, five and under, to grow up prepared to succeed. It ensures their readiness for school, and supports their families in preparing them for success and wellbeing.

Program staff members include Robin Matteo, director; Susan Lacher, supervisor; Barbara Andre, home visitor; Terri Streck, home visitor; Maya Radoccia, home visitor/assessment worker; David Montes, home visitor/assessment worker; and Laura Dimmick, home visitor/assessment worker.