We are pleased to welcome the Early Learning Initiative (ELI) to the ISSA Network. Based in Dublin, Ireland, ELI has been addressing educational challenges in marginalized communities since 2006 through effective home visiting and parental support programs. This interview highlights ELI’s commitment to enhancing children's development and school readiness, showcasing how their local solutions and focus on community-based support create meaningful impact. ELI's innovative approach and collaborative efforts exemplify the power of targeted, locally driven solutions in transforming lives. 

Learn more about our new Member below. 

How does your organization impact the lives of the people it serves? 

Since 2006, the Early Learning Initiative (ELI) at the National College of Ireland has been addressing the issue of educational underachievement in marginalized communities in Dublin’s Inner City. Building on proven models of early childhood intervention, we collaborate with communities in areas of greatest need to provide world-class parent and child learning support programs. 

We have also expanded an array of home visiting and parental support programs nationwide, supporting community organizations in delivering this vital service to vulnerable families. The staff we employ to work on these programs are all from the local community, and we provide training, ongoing support, and opportunities for career advancement. A key goal of ours is to employ parents who were participants in our home visiting programs as Home Visitors. Currently, twenty percent of our Home Visitors began as parents in the program. Half of our coordinators were originally Home Visitors, and two parents have advanced from Home Visitors to coordinators and now manage their own sites. 

Why is home visiting so important? 

Home visiting provides crucial early support to families, enhancing children's development, school readiness, and overall well-being. Without home visiting and parent support, many children's futures are determined before they even start school. We seek to break this cycle by offering a comprehensive program of activities, training, and support from birth. Our success stems from a collaborative effort to help children, young people, and families develop essential skills and knowledge for their educational and career goals. 

How does ELI work to overcome local challenges? 

Our cross-sector network—including parents, health nurses, preschool staff, community and youth workers, educators, and corporate volunteers—understands local challenges and is dedicated to making a significant impact. Along with government and corporate partners, we support the educational journeys of thousands of marginalized children and young people each year. 

How does your organization plan to engage with and leverage the benefits of being a member of the ISSA Network? 

As we grow, we aim to expand our networks across Ireland and Europe. ISSA's international networking opportunities align with our goals, enabling idea exchange and collaboration on beneficial projects. Being an ISSA Member will provide access to resources on the latest trends and practices across Europe, support our understanding of best practices, and foster cross-cultural learning.  

Additionally, membership of the Network will allow us to contribute to advocacy efforts promoting policies for early childhood development, education, and children's well-being and rights. With our team’s vast skill set, ranging from restorative practice, management and leadership, quality assurance and enhancement, research and data gathering, to early childhood and home visiting specialists, we aim to collaborate with other Members on projects and papers. 

How can other ISSA Members learn more about the Early Learning Initiative’s work? 

For more information, please visit our website and social media platforms below or contact us at eli@ncirl.ie. 

Website: https://www.ncirl.ie/ELI 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/earlylearninginitiative/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/earlylearninginitiative/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/early-learning-initiative/ 

Photo: Children and caregivers play in a Monopoly tournament in a community space.