Ready. Set. GROW.

Ready. Set. GROW. advocates for solutions that improve access to quality childcare and early learning in Allen County.

As childcare continues to be one of the most important workforce issues facing families and employers, this work focuses on elevating the need, engaging partners, and supporting policy efforts that strengthen childcare access, affordability, and quality.

Through Greater Fort Wayne Inc.’s Business Advocacy department, Ready. Set. GROW.  works to advance solutions that support working families, employers, kindergarten readiness, and the long-term success of our community.

Identifying the Need

Ongoing Challenges in Child Care

  • Underutilized Capacity

    A recent survey of Allen County ministry directors found
    that all 16 childcare providers are not operating at full capacity, indicating a concerning trend.

  • Program Sustainability

    197 Programs across Indiana have closed their doors, 12 of them from Allen County

  • Reduced Options

    Early Learning Indiana study, surveyed 442 providers from
    63 counties, 19% stated they would be closing at least one classroom and 17% plan to close their doors permanently.

    Fort Wayne's Mayor Sharon Tucker interacts with children and a local early education program.

    LEGISLATORS & LITTLE LEARNERS

    The Legislators and Little Learners program in Allen County is part of a statewide initiative through Hoosier Milestones and NEIECC (Northeast Indiana Early Childhood Coalition designed to help local and state elected officials better understand the challenges and opportunities within early learning and childcare.

    Through classroom visits, elected officials gain firsthand insight into childcare programs, the children and families they serve, and the dedicated professionals who make this important work possible.