Children’s Trust Starts Free Training for Childcare Business Owners and Directors in Alachua County

Press release from Children’s Trust of Alachua County

The Children’s Trust of Alachua County is starting a free Master Class training series to support childcare owners, operators, and directors. In this county, and across the nation, the business of childcare is in crisis. 

“We depend on childcare professionals and educators to take care of our children. However, childcare is also a business, and we need to help develop them as business leaders,” explained Colin Murphy, Executive Director of the Children’s Trust of Alachua County. 

In Florida, childcare is generally provided by small business owners, mostly owned and staffed by women. Most childcare centers cannot cover the costs of quality childcare. The impact of COVID-19 forced some in Alachua County to close their doors, and staff can now find better-paying jobs. Owners are forced to reduce the number of children at their centers, and families struggle with the balance of affordable childcare and jobs.

“As the voice of business for Alachua County, the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce is pleased to partner with the Children’s Trust on this important initiative to help small business owners prosper. This aligns with our Inclusive Gainesville initiative, which is working toward a more inclusive and equitable community,” explained Eric Godet, Sr., President & CEO of the Greater Gainesville Chamber (www.gainesvillechamber.com). 

The Children’s Trust is fully funding this program and has partnered with the Business & Leadership Institute for Early Learning (www.bliel.org) to provide the training. The Children’s Trust, along with the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce and the Early Learning Coalition of Alachua County, are working together to help these small business owners by providing training and mentoring specific to their business. 

The Business Leadership Institute has successfully delivered its program in Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, Duval, and Orange counties.
  
“This is a moment in time when state and federal funds will be invested in the early learning industry. Master Class is an opportunity to deconstruct and reconstruct your childcare business in preparation of capturing and leveraging these funds.” Robyn Perlman, President and Founder of Business & Leadership Institute for Early Learning.

Candidates for the program can apply at www.bliel.org.