HYANNIS -Cape Cod Child Development’s (CCDP) board has decided to merge with the Job Training and Employment Corporation (JTECH).
Meanwhile, The Office of Head Start has contracted Community Development Institute (CDI) to administer the Head Start program on the Cape on July 1, until a new grantee is awarded.
Nancy Sorbo was hired in August to serve as the organization’s interim director after the departure of executive director Ann Colwell.
“It is not being taken over, we will continue to be a 501 (3)(c) separate agency, but as an affiliate under JTEC,” said Sorbo.
JTEC is a Hyannis-based organization that administers both federal and state workforce development grants and offers fiscal and operational oversight for local non-profits.
CDI is an organization that has provided Head Start interim management services to over 200 programs across the country.
After the Head Start contract ends at the end of June, Cape Cod Child Development will continue to provide preschool services to over 200 children, and operate all of its other programs.
“It will continue to run, although it will be at a difficult capacity, we welcome and are excited to continue to serve Cape Cod, the islands and Wareham children and families,” said Amanda Booth with CCDP.
President and Career Center Director for MassHire Cape and Islands Career Center, Kristina E. Dower issued a statement saying that “the JTEC Board was delighted to affiliate with Cape Cod Child Development”.
The moves come after some restructuring of the agency.
Two new members, Paul Niedzwiecki and Frank Mello, were elected to serve on the agency’s board.
“Cape Cod Child Development provides quality services to thousands of children and families across our region,” said Board President Sheryl Walsh, “and recent challenges, both fiscal and programmatic, have led us to make a positive transitional decision.”
Walsh said the affiliation with JTEC enables CCCDP to continue delivering service to Cape Cod and the Islands’ children and families.
“JTEC has an established track record for successful restructuring and continuation of important programs and vital services, such as the ones we have provided for many years.”
The non-profit organization also received and unflattering report last year, compiled by federal officials regarding its Head Start Program.
The report noted four areas of deficiency, including fiduciary responsibility.
For nearly 50 years, the organization has been the largest provider of early childcare education on Cape Cod.
By JUSTIN SAUNDERS, CapeCod.com Newscenter
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