The Community Foundation of the NRV 2022 2023 Annual Report

Investing in Local Solutions First Steps is a network of organizations and individuals working to support young children and families. With financial and administrative leadership from the CFNRV, First Steps working groups collaborate to disseminate information about the importance of early childhood and lead programs to support the early education and development workforce through locally based solutions. State and federal funding has been helpful in keeping care affordable while addressing workforce challenges, but these programs lack flexibility and can be cumbersome to manage. In 2022, First Steps was awarded a four-year $1.15 million grant from the Town of Blacksburg’s American Rescue Plan funds to pilot a program focused on stabilizing and growing the childcare workforce in Blacksburg. The program will provide financial incentives to recruit and retain educators, focus on hands-on mentorship and professional development, and work with public schools and community colleges to expand the number of people pursuing early education as a career. “Our goal is to balance the flexibility providers need with reporting that helps us understand how local investment can attract, retain, and support talented educators, all so we can expand this across the NRV,” said Margaret Hurst, First Steps Program Coordinator. In addition to this grant award, the CFNRV has been working with Virginia Tech, business leaders, and government officials to emphasize the importance of childcare to economic development and the need for both financial and in-kind investment. “NRV employers recognize that access to affordable, quality childcare is essential to attracting and retaining their own workforce,” said Jessica Wirgau. “There is no one-size-fits all solution, but each of us can do something to support the amazing educators that care for our children.” For more information about First Steps and ways to support early education, email margarethurst@cfnrv.org or visit cfnrv.org/first-steps.

WORKFORCE CRISIS In fall 2022, NRV childcare centers were operating at about 50% of their licensed capacity due to teacher shortages.

INADEQUATE PAY

Starting salaries range from $12 to $16 per hour, well below the $18-$24 per hour available for some entry-level office or retail positions.

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2022 - 2023 ANNUAL REPORT