Education & child development

Support the health, safety and development of children and families to strengthen early childhood, education and access to essential services.

Teachers standing at the front of a classroom with students seated on the carpet below

Ensuring children can thrive

UNC-Chapel Hill brings together research, innovation and community partnerships to help children and families thrive. These efforts strengthen early childhood development and family well-being to create healthier futures. 

Teacher guides young students through a greenhouse

Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute

Since its inception, the UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute has recognized that every child deserves a safe, healthy and stimulating childhood; and our work has been dedicated to making this experience a reality for all children. 

Your support in action

Cast of "Hello, Dolly!" performing on stage in Victorian-era costumes.

It’s so nice to have you back where you belong

A high school actor at PlayMakers’ first Summer Youth Conservatory, Chelsea James ’12 directs its 20th production, “Hello, Dolly!”

A colorful illustration of a brain with social media icons and emojis inside it.

Tips for parents to keep in mind when shopping for devices

New gift fuels research dissemination on technology and the developing mind.

A shoulders up portrait of Anne Maheux on a Carolina blue illustrated background.

Ask a Professor: Anne Maheux on generative AI use among adolescents

The assistant professor in the UNC College of Arts and Sciences and Winston Family Distinguished Fellow at the Winston Center on Technology and Brain Development discusses how the use of digital media, including generative AI, impacts teens.

Support education and child development initiatives

Support students along their path to providing educational excellence, social support and wellness programs for children throughout North Carolina, the nation and world.

The Genevieve and Thomas Arnold Educator Support Expendable Fund

Provides support for licensure exam fees, internship travel stipends, and professional development opportunities for future educators at the UNC School of Education.

The Duncan and Katie Young Expendable Fund for School-Based Mental Health and Wellness

Provides immediate support for the creation of school environments that promote high levels of mental health and wellness, including those of students as well as educators.

Impact Awards

Impact Awards recognize current graduate students and recent graduate alumni whose research contributes to the educational, economic, physical, social or cultural well-being of North Carolina communities and citizens.

The Dean E. Smith Scholarship Fund

Provides support to a student or students enrolled in the UNC School of Education who plan to make a career as teachers in elementary or secondary schools.

Contact us

Have questions or want to explore how your giving can make the greatest impact? We welcome the opportunity to connect and learn more about what inspires you. Reach out to start a conversation about your philanthropic goals and how you can support education and child development initiatives.