Child Care Aware of Kansas is proud to recognize 66 Kansas communities as Child Care Community Champions, honoring their dedication to strengthening local child care systems. This recognition is part of the Child Care Friendly Communities initiative—a statewide program that uplifts community-led efforts to make childcare accessible, sustainable, and supportive for Kansas families and providers.
The Child Care Community Champion designation celebrates individuals, coalitions, and organizations making meaningful progress in one or more of four key pillars:
Child Care Impact Partner Recognizes communities that have formed strong, diverse coalitions focused on expanding childcare.
No Barriers, Bright Futures Celebrates efforts to remove local policy barriers that make it difficult to open or expand childcare programs.
Child Care Capacity Builders Honors work that increases the number of available childcare slots and improves access for Kansas families.
Backbone Support Initiative Highlights investments in the well-being and sustainability of the childcare workforce.
Child Care Aware of Kansas Interim Executive Director Kami Cohorst praised the communities for modeling sustainable change for Kansas families.
“They are brilliant examples of how collaboration and commitment can lead to better outcomes for children and families when childcare is treated as essential infrastructure,” Cohorst said. “We are proud to recognize their accomplishments and encourage others across the state to look to them for inspiration.”
2026 Child Care Community Champions
Harvey — Child Care Task Force: Impactful coalition work; capacity building
Marion — Marion County Early Childhood Task Force: Impactful coalition work; capacity building; workforce well-being
McPherson — McPherson County Child Care Task Force: Impactful coalition work; capacity building; workforce well-being
Ottawa — Bennington Child Care Coalition: Impactful coalition work; capacity building
Reno — Pretty Prairie Child Care Coalition: Impactful coalition work; capacity building
Reno — Reno County Child Care Task Force: Impactful coalition work; capacity building; workforce well-being
Rice — Rice County Childcare Coalition: Impactful coalition work; workforce well-being
Saline — Early Childhood Initiative: Impactful coalition work; policy reform efforts; capacity building; workforce well-being
Individuals and communities can earn recognition as Child Care Community Champions in many ways—from forming new coalitions to strengthening existing efforts. Through celebration, collaboration, and sustained investment, Child Care Aware of Kansas is working to create a brighter future for children and families across the state.
Does someone in your community deserve to be recognized? Contact us at [email protected], explore designation options, and nominate a local champion.
Child Care Aware of Kansas is a statewide organization dedicated to ensuring every Kansas family has access to quality, affordable childcare. Through community partnerships, education, and advocacy, the organization helps strengthen early childhood systems and support children, families, and providers.
