Bright Beginnings

Early Care and Education Coalition

In response to growing concerns about early care and education access, affordability, and quality, the Johnson County Community Foundation (JCCF) has launched the Bright Beginnings Early Care and Education Coalition. This initiative, driven by a 2024 countywide needs assessment and in collaboration with Transform Consulting Group, seeks to address a critical shortage of early care and education.

With approximately 12,000 children under age five in the county and 68% of their parents in the workforce according to Brighter Futures Indiana Data Center, the need for reliable childcare is urgent. JCCF views early childhood education as both a quality of life and economic development issue, helping parents remain employed and supporting children's early learning.

Although a Lilly Endowment grant application did not secure funding, it highlighted urgent gaps and guided the formation of the Coalition, which began meeting in 2025. Throughout the year, the group will establish goals to address local needs and engage a variety of perspectives to shape long-term solutions.

If you are interested in participating in the coalition, please contact Kim Kasting at kimm@jccf.org.