Paula Yost Appointed to North Carolina Partnership for Children Board by State Legislature

Cabarrus County Partnership for Children is proud to announce, Paula Yost, an attorney and licensed clinical mental health counselor, has been appointed by the North Carolina General Assembly to serve on the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Partnership for Children (NCPC). Senator Phil Berger named Paula as his legislative appointee to represent young parent’s interest statewide.

Paula brings decades of distinguished public service dedication to children and mental health services. Her appointment recognizes her long-standing advocacy for children and mental health. In addition to her professional experience, Paula is a mother of four, giving her a personal perspective on the challenges and needs facing families with young children.

"We are incredibly honored that Paula will now have a voice at the highest level of government policymaking in North Carolina for our youngest children and families," said Ann Benfield, Executive Director of the Cabarrus County Partnership for Children. Her unwavering commitment to our mission and the well-being of children has made a lasting impact in Cabarrus County, and we know she will bring the same passion and vision to the NCPC.

The North Carolina Partnership for Children is the statewide nonprofit organization that manages Smart Start, one of the country's most innovative early childhood systems. Founded in 1993, NCPC collaborates with a network of 75 Local Smart Start Partnerships to ensure every young child in North Carolina starts school healthy and prepared to succeed.

The NCPC Board comprises state and local leaders who direct strategic planning for early childhood services statewide. Board members work with policymakers, educators, nonprofits, and business leaders to increase access to quality early childhood education, strengthen families, and support children's health. As a NCPC Board Member, Paula will ensure early childhood policies meet community needs across North Carolina.