It Takes a Community: Local Leadership in Childcare Solutions

Randall Hazelbaker, Branch County Commissioner and Zoning Administrator, Robert Hawley with BC3 members and their respective May 8th declarations.

At the Community Foundation, we believe strong communities begin with strong families and strong families need access to safe, reliable, and high-quality childcare.

For more than two years, the Branch County Childcare Coalition (BC3) has been working alongside regional partners, providers, municipalities, and community leaders to strengthen childcare throughout Branch County. Together, we have focused on supporting current childcare providers while also exploring ways to expand access and encourage new providers to serve local families.

This work has required collaboration, creativity, and commitment from many sectors of our community. One of the most significant recent milestones has been the City of Coldwater’s review and update of its zoning ordinances related to childcare facilities. These updates help make the process of opening a childcare facility (in home or center based) easier, more transparent, and more aligned with State recommendations. It’s an important step toward removing barriers for providers who want to serve local families.

The City of Coldwater and the County of Branch have both played meaningful roles in this work through their participation on the BC3 implementation team. Their willingness to engage in conversations, identify solutions, and help shape future plans demonstrates a shared commitment to ensuring Branch County remains a place where children and families can thrive.

Their support extends beyond meetings and planning sessions. Both the City and the County formally recognized May 8 as National Provider Appreciation Day, honoring the childcare professionals who care for and educate young children every day. Childcare providers are essential to our local economy, workforce, and the well-being of families, and this recognition sends an important message that their work matters.

In addition, the City of Coldwater recently had Robert Hawley, along with Mallory VanWager, the Coalition Lead, attend a statewide convention in Lansing that focused on Municipal Roadmaps to Early Childhood Success. By bringing back insight, ideas, and inspiration from communities across Michigan, they continue to demonstrate leadership and a desire to move our community forward.

Enhancing childcare access is not a quick or simple challenge to solve, but meaningful progress happens when communities work together. We are grateful for the partnership and support of the City of Coldwater, the County of Branch, and all members of the BC3 coalition who continue to invest in the future of our children and families.

Together, we are building a stronger, more family-friendly Branch County,  one step at a time.