Kalamazoo, MI — The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo has officially endorsed the Yes for Families campaign, encouraging our members, partners, and neighbors across Kalamazoo County to support early childhood care by voting YES on or before August 4. CLICK HERE FOR OFFICIAL SAY YES FOR FAMILIES WEBSITE
For 160 years, the Y has been deeply committed to strengthening community, supporting families, and nurturing the potential of every child. Reliable, high-quality early childhood care is essential infrastructure for a thriving community. However, families and providers throughout Kalamazoo County families currently face severe challenges:
- High Costs: The average local household spends 34% of its income on childcare—far above the 7% national affordability standard.
- Limited Access: Kalamazoo County currently has only 1 licensed slot for every 4 children ages 0–3.
- Workforce Strain: 71% of early childhood educators earn less than $15/hour, leading to staffing shortages that leave classrooms closed.
When childcare is accessible and reliable, parents can stay in the workforce, local businesses stay strong, early educators earn fair wages, and young children gain a safe, enriching environment to learn and grow.
"Every day at the Y, we see how important reliable, high-quality care is for youth and families", said Bobby Ludwick, Vice President of Youth Development and Grants. "Without it, there can be negative impacts on a child’s development and on a family's stability. This initiative directly addresses the critical shortage of infant and toddler slots, lifts up our early childhood workforce, and makes essential care accessible to working families across Kalamazoo County. Supporting 'Yes for Families' is about investing in the foundation of our entire community."
Why the Y Stands with "Yes for Families"
By creating a dedicated local millage fund, the Yes for Families initiative focuses on expanding care for infants and toddlers, lowering costs for working families, and providing critical support to local early educators and providers across all of Kalamazoo County.
As an organization dedicated to youth development and social responsibility, we believe investing in our youngest learners creates a stronger, healthier, and more resilient future for everyone.
How You Can Help
- Plan to Vote YES: Cast your ballot on or before August 4.
- Learn More: Discover how this initiative directly impacts local families and workforce support by visiting the official Yes for Families Website.
- Spread the Word: Talk with your neighbors, friends, and co-workers about the importance of supporting early learning across Kalamazoo County.
- Put up a Yard Sign: The Y’s at Maple and Portage have signage (while supplies last.)
Together, we can build a stronger future for our children, working families, and community.
