Child care is essential to Vermont. Without a comprehensive child care system, young children can’t access quality early childhood education, parents can’t return to work, and early childhood educators can’t make ends meet. But there is a child care solution.
In 2023, we passed Act 76, a historic piece of legislation that will infuse an additional $125 million into Vermont’s child care system. This is a quantum leap forward for Vermont families and early childhood education programs. It brings us closer than we’ve ever been to solving our child care crisis — but our work is not done yet.
This year we need to make sure Act 76 is implemented effectively and the funds it provides reach the parents and programs that need it most. That’s where you come in.
How can I get involved in the child care movement?
You can both elevate child care and make a difference in your community by taking part in our campaign’s Child Care Advocacy Fellowship. As a fellow, you’ll be a leader and spokesperson in Vermont's child care movement, promoting public investment in our child care system through a combination of legislative and electoral advocacy.
Apply now to represent the Child Care Campaign in your community to help us keep the momentum going and ensure kids and their families are getting the quality child care they need and deserve.
Am I a good fit for the Child Care Advocacy Fellowship?
Here’s what we’re looking for: As a child care champion, you believe in the Child Care Campaign’s mission of affordable, quality child care for all Vermont families who need it, and you’re willing to leverage personal networks to promote that mission. You're interested in and available for monthly trainings and will be a ready change-agent for the child care movement.
Ideal candidates are:
- Passionate about affordable child care;
- Can dedicate eight hours each month to grassroots organizing, which is a combination of scheduled outreach events and rapid response actions;
- Will promote the Child Care Campaign’s mission to friends, family, employers, social organizations, business contacts, and/or other personal networks;
- Willing to be a spokesperson when invited;
- Available for one full day, in-person training and periodic Zoom meetings.
You can read the full program description here.
Why participate in the Child Care Advocacy Fellowship?
Selected applicants will represent their community in the 14-person Child Care Advocacy Fellowship. They’ll join a state-wide network of experienced and emerging leaders, benefit from trainings to be effective changemakers, connect with others who share their passion, and influence lawmakers and political candidates to better support Vermont families.
Participants will also receive a $250 stipend for volunteering, plus travel compensation from April to December, 2024.
How do I apply?
Attend an informational session on January 31, then submit your application by February 9!
Questions? Email Wendy Rice at wendy@letsgrowkids.org.