Submitted Photo The Randolph County Commission signed a pair of Proclamations during its most recent meeting. The Proclamations were for Child Provider Appreciation Day and Community Action Month. Taking part in the Proclamation signings were, from left, Randolph County Commission President David Kesling, MountainHeart Community Services' Zandra Kelly, MountainHeart Community Services' Brenda Riggleman, North Central WV Community Action's Genen Purkey, and Randolph County Commissioner Cris Siler.

ELKINS – The Randolph County Commission approved a pair of Proclamations at its most recent regular meeting held at the Commission Annex.

Child Provider Appreciation Day and Community Action Month were the Proclamations signed and were approved unanimously by Commissioners David Kesling and Cris Siler.

MountainHeart Community Services’ Zandra Kelly discussed Child Provider Appreciation Day, which was observed nationally on May 8, and gave an informational presentation to the County Commission.

“Child care providers play a vital role in supporting families and strengthening communities across West Virginia,” Kelly said. “In large and small towns they create safe, nurturing environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive during the most important developmental years.”

Kelly told the Commissioners that reliable child care makes it possible for working families to be able to maintain employment and pursue other career opportunities.

“Beyond care, providers lay the foundation for lifelong learning, nurturing, curiosity, building confidence, and supporting emotional and social development,” Kelly said. “Simply put, when child care providers are supported and valued, children thrive, families succeed and communities grow stronger. We sincerely thank our child care providers for their dedication, patience and lasting impact.”

Child Provider Appreciation Day is celebrated annually on the Friday immediately preceding Mother’s Day and is celebrated to recognize caregivers, educators, and nannies.

Brenda Riggleman, also from MountainHeart Community Services, spoke to the Commission about Community Action Month.

“The Community Action Network is a proven, result-driven partnership between federal, state and local government,” Riggleman said. “One that helps hard working families move forward … Continued support for the Community Action Network is an investment and local leadership fiscal responsibility to strengthening families, supporting the workforce and building stronger communities across West Virginia.”

Community Action Month is celebrated every May as a way to recognize the Community Action Network’s 60-year legacy and its efforts to help reduce poverty, revitalize neighborhoods, and empower individuals.

The next regular Randolph County Commission meeting will be held on May 28 at 1:30 p.m.