Arizona County Tackles Child Care to Boost Economy

When families can't find reliable child care, parents stay home from work, businesses struggle to fill positions, and entire communities feel the economic pinch.

Now, leaders across Yavapai County, Arizona are treating child care like what it really is: critical infrastructure for economic growth. First Things First Yavapai, the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, local realtors, and workforce development groups are hosting a strategic summit on April 24, 2026, to tackle the shortage head on.

The event brings together an unusual mix of partners. Business owners will sit alongside housing professionals and community leaders at Grace Church in Chino Valley. Their shared goal is finding real solutions to a problem that touches every sector.

"Child care is workforce infrastructure," says Sheri L. Heiney, President and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce. When parents can't access after-school programs or daycare, they can't participate fully in the workforce, which creates a domino effect throughout the regional economy.

The data tells a clear story. Across Yavapai County, child care access ranks as one of the biggest barriers to workforce participation. Employers consistently report the same challenge: qualified workers exist, but many can't accept jobs or maintain stable hours without reliable care for their kids.

This summit takes a different approach by examining child care through an economic lens. Participants will review regional trends, learn from communities that have implemented innovative solutions, and identify opportunities for policy changes and infrastructure investments.

The Ripple Effect

The collaboration itself shows how attitudes are shifting. When chambers of commerce, realtors, and early childhood advocates share a table, it signals that child care is no longer seen as just a family issue or education concern.

It's recognized as economic development. Housing professionals understand that families need child care options before they can commit to mortgages in new communities. Business leaders know that workforce stability depends on parents having safe, affordable places for their children during work hours.

Lisa Blyth, Yavapai Regional Director for First Things First, emphasizes that partnership makes the difference. When regional leaders align resources and share data, they can build solutions that benefit children, families, and employers simultaneously.

The summit focuses on action, not just conversation. Attendees will leave with concrete partnership opportunities and strategies they can implement across sectors.

By treating child care as essential infrastructure rather than a personal problem, Yavapai County is building a blueprint other communities can follow.