United Way of Central Virginia is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $283,000 Planning Grant from Serve Virginia/AmeriCorps. This funding will support the planning phase of the Bright Beginning Child Care and Workforce Initiative, an ambitious project aimed at addressing the critical shortage of quality, aTordable childcare in Central Virginia while simultaneously supporting workforce development.

AmeriCorps, the largest funder of national service in the United States, provides crucial
support through state service commissions like Serve Virginia. These commissions oversee
the distribution of federal funds to state and local programs, driving tangible impacts in
education, environmental stewardship, public safety, health, and economic opportunity. To
learn more about Serve Virginia and AmeriCorps, visit here.

United Way of Central Virginia, in partnership with key community stakeholders, is leading
the Bright Beginning Child Care and Workforce Initiative to advance the well-being of
individuals across Central Virginia, including the City of Lynchburg and the counties of
Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell. This initiative is a key component of United
Way’s mission to address pressing issues related to health, education, and financial
stability in the region.

Addressing Critical Challenges
One of the most pressing challenges facing Central Virginia is the availability of quality and
affordable childcare. Currently, there is a significant shortage of licensed childcare slots for
children aged 0-4, with a 67.7% gap between demand and available services, as
highlighted in the October 2023 JLARC report. This deficit is far above the statewide
average of 9.1%, putting additional strain on families and exacerbating workforce
challenges.

Childcare costs in Central Virginia can consume up to 20% of a family's budget, making it a
significant barrier for those seeking to enter or remain in the workforce. Additionally, a
sharp decline in worker productivity, as reported in the first half of 2022, underscores the
broader economic impact of the childcare crisis. Nationwide, inadequate childcare for
young children results in an estimated annual loss of $122 billion in earnings, productivity,
and revenue.

"The critical nature of this issue underscores the urgency of our eTorts," said Kim
Soerensen, CEO of United Way of Central Virginia. "To eTectively address these escalating
concerns, we are resolutely committed to expanding access to aTordable childcare,
reinforcing our existing network of childcare providers, and cultivating a cadre of highly
skilled early childhood educators. This endeavor will not only facilitate the reintegration of
current residents who have been out of the workforce due to childcare constraints but will
also position us to attract and retain new talent committed to long-term careers. We are
excited to work with AmeriCorps members to address one of the greatest challenges in our
region—childcare."

“BWXT has been an integral member of the Lynchburg community for nearly 70 years, and
we continually look for opportunities that improve the standard of living across our region
and to engage in building the workforce of the future,” said Rex Geveden, BWXT’s CEO. “As
this collaborative initiative meets both of these goals, we gladly signed on as an early
investor. We are confident that the program will make a positive and lasting impact not just
for our current and future employees, but for the entire region.”

Bright Beginning Child Care and Workforce Initiative

In partnership with AmeriCorps, BWX Technologies, Central Virginia Planning District
Commission (CVPDC), Virginia Career Works, Centra Health, City of Lynchburg
Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Central Virginia Community College
(CVCC), and the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, United Way of Central Virginia's
collective objective is to present comprehensive solutions to the childcare workforce gap
and extend vital support to families entering or reentering the workforce. The key
components of the initiative include:

1. Establishment of a High-Quality Childcare Center:
o In collaboration with other agencies and corporate partners, this center will
provide up to 300 placements.
o 100 placements will be designated for underserved families.
o 100 placements will be allocated for corporate partners through
sponsorships.
o 100 placements will be available to the public, with payment structures
based on income levels.
o The facility will operate during a minimum of two standard shifts and include
an in-house pediatric facility for sick children.

2. Recruitment, Training, and Placement of Early Childhood Educators:
o The facility will serve as a central hub for recruiting, training, and placing new
early childhood educators.
o Professional development and training opportunities will be provided for
existing childcare workers.

3. Small Business Training and Certification for In-Home Childcare Providers:
o This program will lead to the expansion of childcare facilities, business
growth, and employment opportunities.

A Shared Services Alliance will provide comprehensive back-oTice support and services,
ensuring that these eTorts are sustainable and impactful.

Through these strategic partnerships, the Bright Beginning Child Care and Workforce
Initiative aims to address critical gaps in the workforce, enabling individuals to join or rejoin
long-term careers while simultaneously delivering quality, accessible childcare services to
the region's children. Moreover, the initiative will foster the growth of small businesses and
create new employment opportunities.

Media Contact: Kim Soerensen
CEO of United Way of Central Virginia
United Way of Central Virginia
434 610-5447
Kim.soerensen@unitedwaycv.org
www.unitedwaycv.org

About United Way of Central Virginia:
United Way of Central Virginia is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families
in the region by addressing critical issues related to health, education, and financial
stability. Through collaboration and strategic partnerships, United Way of Central Virginia is
committed to creating lasting, positive change in the community.