United Way of Story County previously utilized federal ARPA funding to stabilize local child care centers through strategic sign-on and retention bonuses. While this specific funding has now expired, our commitment to supporting local providers remains unchanged; we are currently launching a child care feasibility study to gather the data needed to implement next-generation solutions for Story County families.

The Story County Child Care Feasibility Study delivered a practical, evidence-based roadmap to improve access, affordability, and quality while supporting Story County’s families, providers, and employers.

Pendulum Dependent Care Solutions, a nationally recognized leader in child care feasibility and strategic planning, conducted the comprehensive study from November 2025 to June 2026.

The study provided:

• Data and analysis we can use:
  • A full picture of what child care looked like and what it will require in the future, including how many spots existed, what families could afford, where care was located, and the state of the child care workforce.
• Solutions we can put into action:
  • Clear recommendations for what our community can do next—such as which expansion options to prioritize, where partnerships can be built, how to fund these efforts, and a step-by-step plan for moving forward.
• Community input and a shared direction:
  • Feedback collected from families, child care providers, employers, and local organizations across the county, along with measures to track progress and communication tools to help keep everyone aligned on the same goals.