Tackling the child care challenge

SUNRISE BEACH, Mo. – In the Lake of the Ozarks region, the shortage of accessible, affordable and high-quality child care continues to affect families, employers and early childhood professionals alike, says Ashley Allen-Brown, regional economic development specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

To address this concern, local leaders, educators, employers and residents are invited to Crisis to Collaboration: Tackling the Childcare Challenge, a public panel and workshop organized by Allen-Brown and the MU Extension Council in Camden County.

The free program is 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Zack Wheat American Legion Post, 852 American Legion Road, Sunrise Beach. Check-in and coffee begin at 10:30 a.m.

“The child care crisis is not just a family issue, it is a workforce, economic development and community sustainability challenge,” said Allen-Brown. “This timely event brings together thought leaders and community members to examine the root causes of the crisis, highlight promising practices and chart a path forward.”

The expert panel, moderated by Jennifer Presberry, economic development specialist with Co-Mo Connect, will feature:

• Sarah Kennedy, MU Extension community development specialist.
• Holly Birdsley, director of early childhood programs, School of the Osage.
• Shayla Viele, director, Laker Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP), Camdenton R-III schools.
• Amanda Kunze, board president, Childcare Village Inc.
• Mike Kelley, board member, Childcare Village Inc.
• Cyndy Andrews, director, Good Shepherd Children’s Learning Center.

Following the panel discussion and Q&A, participants will take part in a hands-onasset mapping workshop designed to identify community strengths, partnerships and opportunities for collaboration. Local child care experts will be available to help guide discussions, ensuring a community-driven approach to problem-solving, Allen-Brown said.

“This is more than a conversation. It’s the beginning of community-driven change,” she said. “By bringing voices from every corner of the issue to the table, we can start building real solutions together.”

Lunch will be provided courtesy of Co-Mo Connect.

The event is free, but space is limited, so advance registration is required. Register before Nov. 5.

This program is made possible through the generous support of Co-Mo Connect, the Community Foundation of the Lake, the Lake West Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director Mike Koenigsman, and the Camden County Council of MU Extension Council in Camden County.