Thank you to the approximately 75 business leaders, community partners, child care advocates, and regional stakeholders who joined us today at the Fort William Henry Carriage House in Lake George for an important conversation about the future of child care in the Adirondacks.
Today’s speakers highlighted the significant challenges facing families, employers, and child care providers across our region, along with opportunities to develop practical, collaborative solutions.
With an estimated 80% of the Adirondack region considered a child care desert, the implications extend well beyond working families. Limited access to child care affects workforce participation, business growth, and our ability to attract and retain young families in our communities.
Child care is essential economic infrastructure. Addressing this challenge is fundamental to building a stronger, more sustainable regional economy.
EDC Warren County was proud to co-sponsor today’s gathering together with the Adirondack Community Foundation to support the development of a regional business coalition that will help ensure the unique needs of Adirondack communities are represented as New York State expands its investment in child care.
Special thanks to Ann Donnelly for serving as our emcee and guiding today’s program, to our speakers for sharing their expertise and perspectives, and to the Fort William Henry Hotel & Conference Center for hosting us at the beautiful Carriage House.
We also recognize the important leadership of the Adirondack Community Foundation and Adirondack Birth to Three Alliance, whose ongoing efforts have helped lay the foundation for this regional initiative.
Today’s strong participation demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing our communities.
Strong families support strong businesses. Strong businesses help build stronger Adirondack communities.
Thank you to everyone who participated. We look forward to continuing this important work together.