The Women’s Giving Circle of Chautauqua County is launching a new initiative aimed at improving access to child care.

The Childcare Innovation Challenge is designed as a collaborative, facilitated design process. Selected participants will engage in a series of three half-day sessions focused on reimagining childcare solutions, particularly during school breaks and for families working nontraditional hours.

Sessions will be held at the Williams Center at the State University at Fredonia on May 14, June 4, and June 11, with a final presentation session on June 25.

Participating organizations will explore real childcare needs within the community, build cross-sector partnerships and design and develop innovative pilot concepts.

At the conclusion of the process, teams will present their ideas to the Women’s Giving Circle Grants Committee. Selected proposals may receive funding recommendations ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 to support implementation.

“This initiative is about creating space for collaboration and innovation,” said Sue McNamara and Hope DeGarie, co-chairs of the Women’s Giving Circle Grants Committee. “We are bringing organizations together to think differently about childcare – and to design solutions that reflect the real needs of families in our community.”

Organizations interested in participating are encouraged to learn more and register. Space is limited. For more information, email McNamara at drsuemc@gmail.com or DeGarie at hopedegarie@gmail.com