Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network

The Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network (EIN: 43-1821038) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of child care in Missouri through coordinated resource and referral services. Often referred to as Child Care Aware of Missouri, the organization serves as a vital link between families seeking child care and the services provided by local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies throughout the state.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the Network is to promote a high-quality child care system across Missouri. It aims to achieve this by coordinating the activities of local CCR&R agencies, ensuring that families have access to comprehensive resources for their child care needs. This includes providing assistance in locating child care programs, offering educational resources for families, and supporting early childhood education professionals.

Services Offered

The Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network provides a variety of services, including:

• Resource and Referral Services: Assisting families in finding appropriate child care options that meet their specific needs.

• Educational Resources: Offering information and training to child care providers to enhance their services and improve outcomes for children.

• Community Collaboration: Working with local agencies and organizations to advocate for policies and practices that support the development of a robust child care system.

Governance and Leadership

The organization is governed by a diverse board of directors composed of professionals from various sectors, including finance, education, and healthcare. This board provides oversight and strategic direction to ensure that the organization fulfills its mission effectively and responsively to community needs.

Impact and Importance

The Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network plays a critical role in addressing the challenges faced by families in securing quality child care. By facilitating access to resources and promoting best practices in early childhood education, the Network contributes significantly to the development of children in their crucial early years. The organization emphasizes that the first two thousand days of a child's life are pivotal for their development, making its efforts vital for the future of Missouri's children.

The work of the Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network is essential in ensuring that families across the state have the support and information they need to make informed decisions about their child's care and education.