The lack of accessible, affordable, and high-quality childcare is not just a personal or family issue, it’s a critical workforce, economic development, and community sustainability challenge across the Lake of the Ozarks region. 

This program, organized by Dr. Ashley Allen-Brown, Regional Economic Development Specialist for University of Missouri (MU) Extension in Camden, Miller, and Morgan Counties, brings together thought leaders, educators, and local stakeholders to explore the root causes of the crisis, share promising practices, and begin the critical work of mapping local assets and identifying actionable solutions. 

Hosted by MU Extension, this panel and workshop aim to spark a community-wide dialogue and plant the seeds for long-term, collaborative change.

Join us for Crisis to Collaboration, a solutions-focused panel and workshop designed to move beyond conversation and into collective action. This interactive event brings together local leaders, employers, childcare professionals, and community members to:

• Hear from a panel of regional childcare experts discussing the roots of the crisis and innovative,      practical approaches for addressing it.
• Engage in an Asset Mapping Workshop to identify existing community strengths, underutilized resources, and opportunities for collaborative solutions.
• Network with others who are passionate about building a stronger, more resilient childcare system in our tri-county area.
• Discover valuable resources that can assist you in developing solutions for yourself and your community.

Panelists include:

• Sarah Kennedy – MU Extension Community Development Field Specialist - Early Childhood Impact, As well as professionals in early childhood development, and founders of innovative childcare organizations

Moderated by: Jennifer Presberry, Economic Development Specialist (COMO Connect)

Registration begins at 10:30 a.m.

Lunch is provided courtesy of COMO Connect.

There is no cost to attend, but space is limited. Advance registration is required.

This event is hosted in part by the Camden County Council of MU Extension and made further possible through the generous support of the Community Foundation of the Lake, the Lake West Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director (and proud veteran) Mike Koenigsman.

 Program Agenda

• 10:30 – 11:00 AM: Registration Check-In and Coffee Bar
• 10:55 AM: Welcome and Introductions
• 11:00 – 11:40 AM: Childcare Expert Panel
• 11:40 AM: Panel Q&A
• 12:00 PM: Lunch is served courtesy of COMO Connect
• 12:20 – 1:05 PM: Continue working lunch with Asset Mapping and Collaboration Planning Workshop - facilitated by Sarah Kennedy and Dr. Ashley Allen-Brown
  • Asset Mapping Workshop Summary
    As part of the “Crisis to Collaboration” program, the Asset Mapping Workshop will engage attendees in identifying the strengths, resources, partnerships, and opportunities that already exist within our community to address the childcare crisis. By mapping out these assets together, we’ll gain a clearer picture of where we stand, uncover underutilized connections, and determine practical, collaborative steps we can take to move forward. This interactive session is designed to transform insight into action—ensuring that the conversation doesn’t end with awareness, but continues through informed, community-driven solutions.
• 1:05 – 1:30 PM: Review, Discussion and Action Plan