Enterprises

Innovative New Approach to Childcare Assistance

Northeast Iowa Community College, in partnership with Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, The Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County and the Dubuque Community YMCA/YWCA, has developed an innovative approach to grow the region’s workforce and create additional childcare options for students training for in-demand employment positions. This is an extension of the current Opportunity Dubuque Career Pathway Certificate program.

The organizations’ new initiative will address the shortage of skilled workers available to fill in-demand positions at local businesses. Parents, especially single parents in the Dubuque area, say they are not able to enroll in training for these careers because they cannot find sufficient and affordable childcare.

Starting in March, a new On-Site Child Care program will be available for parents enrolled in eligible training courses while in classes at the Northeast Iowa Community College Town Clock Business Center. The training prepares students for in-demand skilled employment positions in the Dubuque area.

The On-Site Child Care program, administered by the Dubuque Community YMCA/YWCA, will provide care for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years of age, according to Wendy Mihm-Herold, Ph.D., NICC vice president of business and community solutions.

The On-Site Child Care service is available to parents, at no cost, while they are in class and enrolled in career training programs that include Phlebotomy Technician, Industrial Sewing, Customer Service, and a new Early Childhood Care program. Eligible full-time employed graduates of these certificate programs may qualify for additional childcare support for up to 12 months.

For more information about enrolling in classes or to register for an information session, visit NICC.edu/cpc or call (563) 557-8271, ext. 380.


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