The Childcare Crisis: A Community Conversation
The Childcare Crisis: A Community Conversation
Thursday, November 21, 2024 (8:00 AM - 9:30 AM) (EST)
Description
Pre-registration for this event is closed, however you can still purchase your ticket at the door.
The Childcare Crisis: A Community Conversation
Sponsored by City of Winston-Salem and STITCH
Winston-Salem is facing a childcare crisis that impacts families, the workforce, and our community’s future. Join us for the first event in a community series, hosted in partnership with REACH Women’s Network, Greater Winston-Salem, Inc., The Pre-K Priority, and other early childhood-focused organizations, to explore the solutions we need now.
Moderated By:
Leslie Mullinix – Project Director of The Pre-K Priority - As the project director of The Pre-K Priority initiative the last six years, Leslie supports the systems-change work to provide all children in Forsyth County access to affordable, high-quality Pre-K opportunities. In her role, she works across community stakeholders to foster collaboration, promote strategic partnerships, and activate advocacy champions.
Featured Speakers:
Theressa Stephens – Owner of Church Childcare, is a dedicated leader and visionary in early childhood education with over two decades of experience. Known for her compassion and strong leadership, she advocates for equality and addresses the needs of families and children. As a driving force in the field, she makes a lasting impact on her community and the lives of the children she serves. She will share valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing our community.
Reed VanderSlik – CEO of Thrivemore, is a seasoned executive with four decades of experience in diverse industries, including manufacturing and senior living. His commitment to enhancing seniors' quality of life shines through his empathetic, innovative, and collaborative leadership style. Passionate about fostering an environment where residents thrive, Reed actively promotes a culture of respect and dignity within the organization. He will share his plan to establish a combined retirement community and childcare center in partnership with Imprints Cares, aimed at addressing workforce challenges.
Dr. Louis Finney – CEO of SmartStart, is a national leader in early childhood policy and practice with over 25 years of dedicated service. As a highly accomplished nonprofit executive and advocate for early childhood education, his leadership has secured over $250 million in funding for initiatives, including Florida's largest Early Head Start Family Childcare Educator network, supported by $16 million in federal funding. Dr. Finney's contributions ensure that children from underserved communities have access to quality care and education. He will provide a public-private perspective on preparing children for lifelong success.
Join us in shaping the future of childcare in Winston-Salem! Together, we can create a lasting impact for our families and community.
CORPORATE SPONSORS
All proceeds from this event will directly benefit our Leadership Winston-Salem Flagship Scholarship Fund. This fund provides essential tuition assistance to many of our program participants, allowing them to engage in transformative leadership development experiences that might otherwise be unattainable.
Admission Pricing:
Early Bird Admission: $15.00 per person (until October 31)
General Admission: $20.00 per person
A hot breakfast is included
This year, we are excited to introduce our Community Gift Registration option! This special ticket allows you to purchase an additional registration for another community member in need, along with your own. Once purchased, these gifted registrations will be distributed by our trusted community partners to deserving individuals, ensuring that more people can benefit from and participate in this important event. It’s a wonderful way to give back and help others access opportunities they might not otherwise have.
Your contribution goes beyond individual support; it’s an investment in the future of our community. These scholarships empower participants to enhance their skills, forge valuable connections, and become the leaders Forsyth County needs.
Your support means the world to us and to those who benefit from this scholarship. Thank you for helping us empower the next generation of leaders.
1615 Miller Street
Winston Salem, NC 27103 United States