Childcare has long been a significant hurdle for families striving to reenter the workforce, pursue certifications, or undergo training. That’s why the Spokane Workforce Council and its community partners recognized the urgent need to address these barriers head-on.
Reconnect2Work is Finally Here
Introducing Reconnect2Work, Spokane County’s groundbreaking workforce-focused childcare program, specifically designed to support the needs of community members. The region has witnessed the tremendous challenges faced by families when making critical workforce decisions, whether due to the high cost, limited availability, or lack of accessibility of childcare services. These hurdles became the motivation behind creating a solution.
The primary goal of Reconnect2Work is to assist families in managing their childcare expenses while navigating workforce transitions and pursuing further education. The program firmly believes that reliable and affordable childcare should not be an obstacle preventing individuals from reaching their full potential. Through this initiative, families receive a necessary support system to stabilize their childcare arrangements as they strive to advance their careers.
Amanda Zahara, the dedicated Childcare Navigator from the Resource Center of Spokane County, plays a crucial role in helping families access the resources they need.
“Some of the responsibilities I have with helping parents reenter the workforce include deskside assistance with applying for funds, crafting personalized sustainability plans, and connecting families to a wide range of workforce resources available both on and off the comprehensive WorkSource Spokane One-Stop Campus. If childcare is a barrier, our team can help by helping parents secure jobs, maintain employment, or engage in training short-term, credential-based training.”
Amanda Zahara, Resource Center of Spokane County, Childcare Navigator
Resources for Aspiring Childcare Workers
One of the key challenges identified early on was the limited availability of childcare slots to accommodate the families the Reconnect2Work program aims to assist. In close collaboration with the Community Colleges of Spokane Corporate & Continuing Education, the program has developed Childcare Basics+, Spokane’s first-ever short-term childcare industry certification program. The first cohort is set to commence on July 10, 2023.
Childcare Basics+ is a comprehensive five-week program offered both virtually and in person. The short-term training course covers all the mandatory requirements set by the state for employment in the childcare sector. To support the initial cohort of 15-25 students, scholarships are available to cover the course fees. Additionally, job placement assistance is provided to graduates, ensuring their smooth integration into the childcare workforce.
“We’re so fortunate for our partnership with Spokane County as they’re exclusively sponsoring the first Childcare Basics+ cohort. We can’t thank you enough for the tremendous generosity and wouldn’t be able to accomplish all this without your support.”
Bianka DeSure, Spokane Workforce Council, Reconnect2Work Program Coordinator
Individuals interested in joining the first Childcare Basics+ course are encouraged to visit reconnect2work.com/candidates. Detailed information about the course outline, schedule, and the steps to secure a place in this impactful training program can be found there.
The program firmly believes that every family deserves access to quality childcare and enables parents to pursue their career aspirations without compromising their child’s well-being.
Together with dedicated partners, Reconnect2Work is breaking barriers by creating opportunities and empowering families across Spokane County. Join them in building a brighter future where childcare is no longer an obstacle but a catalyst for success.
For more information about Reconnect2Work and its efforts to transform the landscape of childcare support, please visit their website or contact Bianka DeSure via email or phone at 509-960-6254.
The Spokane Workforce Council is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request. Washington Relay: 711
Reconnect2Work is 100% funded with federal awards totaling $5,000,000.
