By: Marites MacLean
The journey of the ECFS Start-Up Fund Program, in collaboration with the LELE Childcare Entrepreneur Steward Training Program, exemplifies the transformative power of collaboration and community-driven initiatives. Initially funded by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (FRBB) under its Leaders for Equitable Local Economies (LELE) initiative, which originated from the Working Cities Challenge, this innovative program has thrived thanks to the dedicated efforts of Empower Children for Success, NewVue Communities, Fitchburg Public Schools, Inform Fitchburg, and the LELE Fitchburg Team.
Since its inception, the LELE Childcare Entrepreneur Steward Training program has provided critical support and resources to aspiring childcare entrepreneurs in the Fitchburg and surrounding areas in North Central MA and Worcester County. The first to eighth cohorts were successfully funded by the FRBB, enabling numerous individuals to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to establish and sustain high-quality childcare services. Building on this foundation, the ninth cohort received funding from the Community Foundation of North Central MA, continuing the program’s impactful legacy.
The partners are proud to announce the commencement of training for the tenth cohort that began on August 16, 2024. This milestone is made possible through the generous support of the Health Equity Partnership of North Central MA (CHNA9).
The alignment of childcare with CHNA9’s mission is multifaceted and profound. One of the primary goals of the North Central Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) is to build community wealth through the Anchor Collaborative’s efforts. Affordable childcare is a crucial component of this objective, as it supports local individuals in entering, advancing, or remaining in the workforce. Furthermore, childcare is integral to the education environment, which the CHIP process identified as critical for providing access to conditions essential for well-being, including healthy food, safety, and mental wellness.
Childcare environments also serve as pivotal touchpoints for comprehensive child and family services. They offer avenues for prevention and intervention strategies, education, social services, and more, while providing a safety net through the presence of additional caregivers. This allows for earlier interventions and supports. Moreover, childcare that aligns with a family’s culture helps preserve cultural identity, fosters trust, and builds community, advancing CHNA9’s goal of working toward antiracist systems.
The Working Cities Challenge in Fitchburg, driven by the FRBB, has played a significant role in fostering collaborative efforts to address local challenges and promote economic growth. Through this initiative, Fitchburg has witnessed transformative changes in community engagement and support, paving the way for the creation of nonprofit organizations like Empower Children for Success and programs like the LELE Childcare Entrepreneur Steward Training.
Seven Hills has graciously served as the fiscal sponsor for the LELE project, ensuring financial stewardship and accountability. Additionally, the partnership with the City of Fitchburg, United Way, and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation has been instrumental in funding the competitive “Start Up Funds” awarded to graduates. These graduates, who have successfully received their licenses from the Department of Early Education and Care and met the grant’s eligibility requirements, are empowered to establish their childcare businesses, further contributing to the community’s well-being.
The collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment of all involved parties have been the driving force behind the success of the LELE Childcare Entrepreneur Steward Training. As the partners and collaborators embark on the training for the tenth cohort, they remain dedicated to empowering individuals, fostering community engagement, and promoting equitable local economies through quality childcare services.