Boone County is making bold strides in addressing the critical needs of early childhood educators thanks to a new Empower to Educate grant from United Way of Central Indiana. This funding will support both the professional growth and mental well-being of child care professionals across the county—investing in the people who care for our community’s youngest learners.
A Community-Driven Response to a Countywide Challenge
The grant marks the first major initiative for the Boone County Early Learning Coalition, a group launched in late 2024 following the results of the Boone County Child Care Study. Conducted earlier that year, the study painted a clear picture: more than 600 children in Boone County lack access to licensed child care—a gap that strains working families and employers alike.
To address this growing crisis, the Boone EDC partnered with cross-sector leaders to form the Coalition, with funding support from the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning, Community Foundation of Boone County, Eli Lilly and Company, Witham Health Services, and Traditions Realty.
Supporting the People Behind the Care
With the support of the Empower to Educate grant, the Coalition will host a one-day professional development and appreciation event in summer 2025. The event will provide early learning professionals with tools to manage stress, build resilience, deepen their expertise, and celebrate their vital contributions to the community.
“United Way of Central Indiana’s investment affirms the importance of caring for the people who care for our children,” said Michelle Hight-Thomas, MSW, volunteer leader of the Coalition and veteran in early childhood education. “This event will provide meaningful, restorative support for child care professionals, who are the backbone of working families and a thriving local economy.”
The event will feature expert keynote speakers, targeted breakout sessions, and a community luncheon aimed at uplifting, empowering, and connecting participants. Feedback gathered during the event will guide future professional development efforts for Boone County’s child care workforce.
Strength in Collaboration
“This is exactly the kind of cross-sector collaboration Boone County needs,” said Julie Reagan, CEO of the Community Foundation of Boone County. “CFBC is proud to serve as the Coalition’s fiscal sponsor and help move this critical work forward.”
The Coalition is powered by a growing network of partners, including Boone EDC, the Community Foundation of Boone County, Eli Lilly and Company, and The Child Care Resource Network.
“By investing in the people who power our child care system, we are strengthening families, employers, and the future of our community,” said Andrea Kern, CEO of Boone EDC.
Want to learn more?
To request the full Boone County Child Care Analysis Report or get involved with the Boone County Early Learning Coalition, please contact Boone EDC via email at hello@betterinboone.org.