Mosaic of North Central Wisconsin's Mission is to ensure North Central Wisconsin is the place individuals choose to live and work because differences are embraced; individuals feel connected, valued, and supported; and there is a strong sense of belonging.
Description
Navigating child care in Central Wisconsin can be overwhelming for families, professionals, and community stakeholders alike. Join us for an informative workshop that sheds light on the current child care landscape, available resources, and the complex challenges facing the industry today. Presenters: Kelly Borchardt, the Executive Director of Childcaring, Inc. and Micki Krueger, the Assistant Director for Childcaring, Inc.
In this session, participants will:
- Explore what child care looks like in Central Wisconsin
- Learn about the role of Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies like Childcaring and how they support communities, families, and providers
- Review the current number of regulated child care providers, waitlist trends, and the growing gap in availability across Marathon, Wood, and Lincoln counties
- Understand the types of child care regulation, including group centers and family child care
- Get an overview of tools and resources
- Discuss financial assistance programs, including Wisconsin Shares and Good Start Grants
- Examine why child care costs are so high despite low provider wages and what’s contributing to the broken child care business model
Whether you're a parent, professional, or community leader, this workshop will provide valuable knowledge and actionable guidance to better understand and navigate the child care system in our region.
Learn more about the presenters:
Kelly Borchardt is the Executive Director of Childcaring, Inc., a leading Child Care Resource and Referral agency serving central Wisconsin. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership and early childhood advocacy, Kelly has dedicated her career to ensuring families have access to high-quality, affordable child care. Under her leadership, Childcaring has expanded its impact through innovative partnerships, provider support programs, and community-based solutions. Kelly is a respected voice in Wisconsin’s child care landscape, recognized for her strategic vision, collaborative approach, and unwavering commitment to children and families.
Micki Krueger is the Assistant Director for Childcaring, Inc., a nonprofit Child Care Resource and Referral agency serving central Wisconsin. With over two decades of experience in early childhood services, Micki is a passionate advocate for increasing access to quality child care and supporting the providers who make it possible. In her leadership role, she helps guide Childcaring’s community outreach, program development, and provider support initiatives. Micki is known for her collaborative spirit and deep commitment to building stronger, more family-friendly communities.
Date & Time
Thu, Aug 21, 2025 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM