Quality Child Care Fuels Our Economy and Empowers Women

High-quality, accessible child care isn’t just a convenience — it’s a critical foundation for gender equity in the workforce and builds a stronger, more resilient community. When women have reliable care for their children, they can stay in the workforce, pursue advancement, and contribute to their family’s financial stability. But the benefits don’t stop there. When families thrive, so do local businesses, community institutions and the broader economy.

Child Care, Women, and Economic Opportunity

In Colorado, only 66% of women with young children are in the workforce—compared to 95% of men with young kids and 89% of women without (Source: Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis). This gap is driven largely by the lack of affordable child care, which forces many mothers to reduce hours or leave work altogether.

Research shows that reducing child care costs by just 10% could boost maternal labor force participation by up to 2.5%—or even 11% in some cases (Source: Dr. Taryn Morrisey). Without action, mothers face lifetime income losses of up to $600,000 due to the “motherhood penalty” (Source: Women’s Institute for Secure Retirement).

The Solution: Persimmon Early Learning

At YWCA Boulder County, Persimmon Early Learning (PEL) provides high-quality, nurturing care that helps parents—especially mothers—stay in the workforce. PEL offers sliding scale tuition to ensure care is accessible for working families of all income levels.

For Tarah Wolf, a retail manager in the male-dominated liquor industry, Persimmon Early Learning is more than just child care; it's a vital enabler for her leadership and mission. 

For Lisset Hernandez, a working mother of two, Persimmon was more than just a daycare — it was a lifeline. After searching for a place she could trust, Lisset found the safety, support and community she needed.

Lisset watched Sofia flourish — growing more independent, expressive and confident while she gained the freedom and peace of mind to focus on her work.

Quality Child Care: The Missing Piece to Unlocking Women's Full Potential

Child care is not a niche concern — it’s a cornerstone of our economic and social infrastructure that affects everyone - not just women. When affordable, high-quality care isn’t available, families struggle, businesses lose talent and progress toward gender equity stalls.

You are a vital piece of the solution. Learn more about Persimmon Early Learning, and help expand access to child care by donating today. Your contribution directly helps working families afford the care they need, strengthening the entire community.