Tackling Workforce Barriers: Childcare Solutions Summit
Sandusky, OH — On Wednesday, May 14, the Greater Sandusky Partnership (GSP) and the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) co‑produced the Childcare Solutions Summit at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. The event welcomed over 50 employers from across the region to collaborate on one of today’s most pressing workforce challenges: access to quality, affordable child care.
The summit underscored the pivotal role employers can play in removing child care barriers for their teams. Attendees began the day with a fireside chat between Firelands Health CEO Jeremy Normington‑Slay and Nicole Riehl, CEO of EPIC (Executives Partnering to Invest in Children), who shared insights on business‑driven child care initiatives. Riehl emphasized,
“Businesses don’t have to start big, but they need to take a step (even if it is small) in the right direction.”
Following the keynote discussion, participants divided into three targeted breakout sessions:
- Family Child Care Networks, presented by the CCRC team
- Erie County Tuition Assistance Programs, presented by the CCRC team
- Child Care Center & Business Partnerships, presented by the Faith Learning Center team
Each session provided actionable strategies for forging partnerships between employers, child care providers, and community organizations—enabling businesses of all sizes to support working families more effectively.
“We were thrilled by the turnout and the meaningful dialogue sparked throughout the day,” said Makenna Laser, Workforce Development Manager at GSP. “Employers hold tremendous influence in shaping child care solutions, and this summit equipped them with the tools and connections needed to move from conversation to action.”
The Childcare Solutions Summit represents a significant step toward strengthening the region’s workforce by ensuring working parents have reliable, affordable child care options.
About the Greater Sandusky Partnership (GSP):
The Greater Sandusky Partnership is a regional chamber dedicated to delivering comprehensive economic development services to improve the quality. People can learn more by visiting greatersandusky.com or calling 419-625-6421.
About the Child Care Resource Center (CCRC):
The Child Care Resource Center supports families, early childhood professionals, and communities across North Central Ohio. CCRC provides resources, training, advocacy, and support to increase access to high-quality child care and strengthen early learning systems throughout the region.
