UNITED FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

EARLY LEARNING
INITIATIVES

Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families, building a stronger community for all.

UNITED FOR EARLY LEARNING

At Greater Gallatin United Way, we understand that early learning is the foundation of lifelong success. That’s why we are committed to enhancing early childhood education and care through strategic partnerships, community collaboration, and impactful programs. As part of our recent transition, we are proud to continue the important work previously led by Child Care Connections (CCC), now incorporated into our early learning initiatives. This transition allows us to expand our efforts in ensuring every child in our community has access to the care and education they deserve.

23% OF INCOME SPENT ON CHILD CARE

Families in Gallatin County are spending 23% of their household income on child care—well above the recommended 7%.

40% OF COMPANIES

40% of Montana companies reported challenges in hiring and retaining employees due to lack of affordable child care.

1 iN 3 CHILDREN

1 in 3 children begin kindergarten without essential language skills, putting them at a disadvantage.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHILD CARE CHALLENGES IN OUR COMMUNITY

Child care impacts everyone—our economy relies on affordable, quality care for working families, yet providers face paying low wages and families encounter barriers. Explore the state of affordability, accessibility, and quality in Montana and our community.

EARLY CHILDHOOD COMMUNITY COUNCIL

The ECCC brings together leadership and front-line staff across various sectors to improve communication and take action on shared early childhood goals. Through this collaboration, we aim to foster a community that supports early learning and ensures children enter kindergarten ready to succeed.

Increase access and affordability of mental health services to reduce childhood adversity, including abuse and neglect.

Enhance the opportunity for every child to have access to safe, evidence-based, healthy early childhood experiences that support their individual needs.

Change systems through advocacy and policy related to early childhood.

Ensure children enter Kindergarten prepared to succeed in school.

GALLATIN AREA EARLY CHILDHOOD COMMUNITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

Our council includes diverse leadership and program staff committed to shared goals. We believe that inclusive collaboration drives innovation, and our efforts to support early childhood development are strengthened by multiple perspectives and approaches.

Mental Health Consultant

Gallatin River Child Care

CHILD TASK FORCE LOGO

child task force

The CHILD Task Force brings together experts from diverse fields to develop and implement innovative solutions that enhance the child care landscape in Gallatin County and the surrounding areas.

Increase affordability, accessibility, and availability of thriving quality child care.

Recruit and retain the local workforce by having sustainable options for child care.

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Solutions for Child Care Businesses

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Child Care Solutions for Families

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Child care Solutions for Businesses

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Policy and Subsidy Solutions

CHILD TASK FORCE MEMBERS

The members are leaders and advocates in their respective fields, bringing fresh, outside perspectives to the continually evolving child care challenges facing Gallatin County and the surrounding areas.

Local Legislators

Employer Supported
Child Care

Big Sky Early Childhood Alliance

The Big Sky Early Childhood Alliance is a three-year initiative aimed at solving challenges pertaining to the affordability and availability of childcare in the Big Sky community.

Increase affordability, accessibility, and availability of quality child care.

Support local child care providers.

A NEW WAY TO SUPPORT FAMILIES- CHILD CONNECT

Child Connect is Greater Gallatin United Way’s bold solution to child care — a growing, community-powered initiative that brings families, providers, employers, and policymakers together to create lasting, local solutions.

GREATER GALLATIN UNITED WAY
EARLY LEARNING PROGRAMS

GGUW tackles early learning challenges with impactful programs and advocacy that lays the foundation for lifelong success. By providing tools and resources through initiatives like the Imagination Library, Bozeman Reads, and school partnerships, we foster a love of learning and prepare every child for academic and social success.

SUPPORT stronger communities
THROUGH EARLY LEARNING

PUBLIC POLICY ADVOCACY

Federal, State, and local policies play a crucial role in shaping our child care landscape, including the quality, accessibility, and overall structure of our child care systems. Find tools to help you connect with local elected officials, and be a voice for child care in your community.

 

EMPLOYER SUPPORTER CHILD CARE

Child care is an essential part of our local and national workforce. As an employer there are a variety of ways that employers can support their employees’ child care needs, and Greater Galaltin United Way is here to help you along the way.

40%

According to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), 40% of Montana businesses say that lack of affordable child care impacts their ability to recruit and retain workers.

 

Learn more from Montana Department of Labor & Industry

OUTCOMES No One

Increase access and affordability of mental health services to reduce childhood adversity, including abuse and neglect.

Increase access and affordability of mental health services to reduce childhood adversity, including abuse and neglect.

Increase access and affordability of mental health services to reduce childhood adversity, including abuse and neglect.

Increase access and affordability of mental health services to reduce childhood adversity, including abuse and neglect.

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