COMMUNITY OUTREACH

We love helping our community.

A group of ten women standing in front of a Providence Preparatory School backdrop, smiling and posing for a photo on a wooden floor.

Smart Start of Mecklenburg County was honored and grateful to have Providence Preparatory School as a partner and presenting sponsor of their annual Opportunity for Influence Breakfast.

The breakfast took place on April 11th in an effort to raise awareness and spread the message that brains are built, not born. Former Governor James Hunt was the keynote speaker and challenged all parents and organizations in Mecklenburg County to do their part and ensure that every child enters kindergarten healthy and ready to learn!  In Mecklenburg County, Smart Start investments have provided opportunities for over 250,000 young children and their families since their founding 25 years ago. Each day, their programs serve thousands more. For more information about the work they are doing in the community on behalf of young children, visit www.SmartStartofMeck.org.

Smart Start of Mecklenburg County logo with colorful puzzle piece graphics.
Group of three women and three children standing outside The Learning Collaborative, a colorful educational center, on a sunny day.

About The Learning Collaborative
The Learning Collaborative (TLC) is Charlotte’s only tuition‑free, Five‑Star preschool and family success program, proudly serving Grier Heights since 1987. TLC empowers young children and their families with high-quality early education, transportation, hot meals, literacy and speech-language support, parent workshops, and a strong community network. https://www.tlccharlotte.org/

Green Apple Gig
One of TLC’s signature events is the Green Apple Gig, a free, family-friendly celebration featuring music, face painting, food trucks, and activities—all made possible through corporate and local sponsorships. Held annually each September at Myers Park Presbyterian Church Outreach Center, this event raises crucial funds to sustain TLC’s preschool and family programs. 

Our Partnership
Providence Prep School is proud to sponsor the Green Apple Gig and support TLC’s mission in the Charlotte community. Through our ongoing involvement, we’re helping TLC nurture early learners, uplift families, and build a foundation of success for future generations.

Logo of The Learning Collaborative featuring a green apple with a heart-shaped core and the slogan 'Nurturing young hearts and minds'