The United Way of Door County has taken a multi-pronged approach to childcare in the community, including one way that could help you find a new career. For the second consecutive year, the United Way of Door County is offering grants to cover your tuition and supplies for early childhood education coursework through Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. The eight-week courses include health safety and nutrition, infant/toddler development, child development, and social science, art, and music. Your successful completion of the courses nets you certificates in Early Childhood Licensing Basic Ages 0-2 and Ages 3-5. Last year’s cohort of students are all employed in early childhood education in Door County, something that United Way Child Care Community Coordinator Molly Gary is happy to see.

Access, affordability, and workforce issues are all reasons why Wisconsin is in a childcare crisis according to the state’s Department of Children and Families. The United Way of Door County has worked with partners in the community to provide training for childcare employees, resources for at-home caregivers, and more to address the issue. You can find more information about how you can apply below.