Dedications set for kids’ programs

Thursday, Sept. 19, 1996 | 11:59 a.m.

Support programs for children infected with the HIV/AIDS virus and for preschool-age children and their parents will be highlighted Friday during dedication ceremonies for two new facilities.

The double dedication begins at noon with ceremonies at the Reach Out Learning Center, 1522 Pinto Lane, followed by the dedication of the Yvonne Atkinson Gates Early Childhood Development Center, 951 Washington Ave., at 1:30 p.m.

Reach Out provides child-care services for children infected with the HIV/AIDS virus, as well as educational programs and support services for their families.

The construction of the facility was made possible through Community Development Block Grant funding from both Clark County and the city of Las Vegas. The county will lease the building to Reach Out for $1 a year.

The Yvonne Atkinson Gates Early Childhood Development Center will offer programs for preschoolers to help ensure successful transitions into kindergarten. In addition, the center will provide prenatal and educational programs for parents.

The Clark County School District donated the 3.96 acre site and will be responsible for the operation and administration of the facility. Construction was funded by city and county block grants and county capital funds.

"These two projects are great examples of what can be accomplished by the city and county joining together to develop badly needed services for the community," said Mayor Jan Laverty Jones.