Regional Leaders Unite Over Child Care

0:00Text-to-speech audio articles made possible on the cast11.com podcast network by Fane Signature Group. First things first, Yavapai, in partnership with Prescott Area Association of Realtors, P-A-A-R, Grit, and the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, will host a strategic regional conversation focused on one of the most pressing challenges facing Yavapai County, access to Child Care and its direct impact on workforce participation and economic growth. The event, Child Care and Economic Growth in Yavapai County, will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Grace Church, 2010 A.Z. 89, Chino Valley, Arizona. Across Yavapai County, Child Care is increasingly recognized as one of the most significant barriers to workforce participation. Employers, economic development leaders, and community partners consistently face the same challenge. When families cannot access reliable child care or after school options, workforce participation declines, business stability is impacted, and regional economic growth slows.

1:03This convening will examine Child Care not only as a social issue, but as a key economic driver that influences workforce readiness, housing stability, and long-term regional competitiveness. Child Care's workforce infrastructure, said Sherry Elhaini, President and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce. By working together across sectors, business, workforce, housing, and community, we can create sustainable solutions that strengthen our economy while supporting families. Partnership is essential to solving complex challenges like Child Care, said Lisa Blithe, Yavapai Regional Director for First Things First. When regional leaders come together, we can align resources, share data, and build long-term solutions that benefit children, families, and employers. Addressing Child Care requires collaboration across industries, said Heather Seats, Public Affairs Director for the Prescott Area Association of Realtors. By working together, we can better support our workforce, strengthen housing stability, and ensure long-term economic growth for our region. Participants will. Review regional data and trends.

2:07Explore how Child Care impacts Workforce Participation and Economic Growth. Learn from other communities implementing innovative solutions. Identify opportunities for partnerships, policy alignment, and infrastructure strategies. Business leaders, workforce partners, housing professionals, and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend and be part of this important solutions-focused discussion. To register, visit. Learn who else is making a difference in the Quad Cities with more stories from community connections on signalsaz.com. Subscribe and be the F-1 RST-2-No.