Local leaders convene to address childcare, workforce challenges on Oct. 28

LACONIA — The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Lakes Region, Lakes Region Child Care Services, Lakes Region Chamber, and Lakes Region Community College will host "Child Care & Workforce: A Lakes Region Conversation" on Thursday, Oct. 29, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Lakes Region Community College.

The event will bring together business leaders, childcare providers, educators, workforce development professionals, and community stakeholders to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing employers and families today: access to affordable, reliable childcare.

Quality childcare plays a critical role in workforce participation and economic growth. Across the Lakes Region, employers and families continue to face challenges related to childcare availability, staffing shortages, and affordability. This community conversation will explore how these issues impact businesses, working families, and the region's long-term economic vitality.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Hear employer perspectives on how child care affects recruitment, retention, productivity, and workforce participation
• Learn about current childcare capacity challenges and workforce shortages
• Explore efforts underway to develop the next generation of childcare and youth development professionals
• Collaborate on strategies to strengthen both the childcare sector and the regional workforce

Community members interested in attending are encouraged to reserve a spot by contacting Joanne Haight at jhaight@nhyouth.org or 603-505-2937.