Southeast New Mexico Community Action Corporation (SNMCAC) Announces Transition of Head Start Services to Youth Development, Inc. (YDI)

The Southeast New Mexico Community Action Corporation (SNMCAC) today announced the formal transfer of its Head Start program to Youth Development, Inc. (YDI), effective December 1, 2025.

This decision was the result of a competitive bid process conducted by the Office of Head Start, followed by close collaboration among SNMCAC, the Office of Head Start, and Youth Development, Inc. with the shared goal of ensuring the continued provision of high-quality early childhood education and family services throughout Chaves and Eddy Counties.

For sixty years, starting in 1965, SNMCAC has proudly served children and families through the Head Start program, providing a strong foundation for school readiness, family engagement, and comprehensive support services. The organization has worked diligently to ensure a smooth and orderly transition that prioritizes the well-being of enrolled children, families, and staff members.

“SNMCAC has been deeply honored to serve our communities through Head Start for many years, and we know that we have made a positive contribution to the children and families in our community,” said Sherra Hester, Executive Director. “As we transition services to Youth Development, Inc., we are confident that families will continue to receive the same high-quality education, care, and support that Head Start has long provided.”

Youth Development, Inc., headquartered in Albuquerque, is a respected New Mexico non-profit organization with nearly 55 years of experience delivering early childhood education and youth development programs across the state. YDI will assume responsibility for Head Start operations in southeastern New Mexico and will continue to employ qualified local staff to ensure consistency and stability for families and children.

“We are grateful to SNMCAC for its decades of commitment and service,” said Robert Chavez, CEO. “YDI is dedicated to honoring that legacy while expanding opportunities and resources for children and families in these communities.”

SNMCAC extends its most profound appreciation to the families, employees, and community partners who have supported the Head Start program throughout the years. The organization remains committed to its broader mission of serving southeastern New Mexico through vital community programs that strengthen families and promote self-sufficiency.

Families currently enrolled in Head Start will receive additional information directly from YDI regarding program operations, staffing, and contact details.

For more information regarding the transition of Head Start services, please contact Ms. Sherra Hester, Executive Director of the Southeast New Mexico Community Action Corporation (SNMCAC), at srhester@snmcac.com, or Ms. Debra Baca, Vice President of Early Childhood Education at Youth Development, Inc. (YDI), at dbaca@ydinm.org.

About Southeast New Mexico Community Action Corporation (SNMCAC)

The Southeast New Mexico Community Action Corporation (SNMCAC), founded in 1965, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the causes and conditions of poverty through education, resources, and community engagement. SNMCAC provides a range of services, including nutrition assistance, emergency housing, utility support, and family development programs, throughout southeastern New Mexico. Feel free to visit snmcac.com to learn more about SNMCAC.

Please note that all other programs and services administered by SNMCAC will continue uninterrupted. This includes the following:

  • Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP): CACFP strives to improve the health and eating habits of participants enrolled in family day care and adult care homes and centers. The program offers reimbursement to the provider of these services for meals served.
  • Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program: CSBG offers rent/mortgage, utility, and prescription payment assistance.
  • Foster Grandparent Program (FGP): The Foster Grandparent Program offers seniors age 55 and older opportunities to serve as mentors, tutors, and caregivers for children and youth with special needs.
  • Senior Companion Program (SCP): The Senior Companion Program is a service initiative through which people age 55 and older provide assistance and friendship to elderly individuals who are homebound and generally living alone.
  • Senior Citizens Program: The Senior Citizens Program operates within Eddy County. Seniors aged 60 and over are eligible for services through the program. Services include: Congregate Meals, Home Delivered Meals, Transportation, Housekeeping, and Adult Day and Respite Care.

About Youth Development, Inc. (YDI)

Founded in 1971, Youth Development, Inc. is one of New Mexico’s leading non-profit organizations serving children, youth, and families in seventeen NM Counties. YDI offers early childhood education, workforce development, mental health services, and youth programs aimed at strengthening families and empowering communities throughout the state.

To learn more about Youth Development, Inc., please visit YDINM.org.