News

West Alabama’s workforce and education leaders are joining forces to tackle one of the region’s most pressing needs: access to quality childcare, specifically for parents working non-traditional hours in manufacturing and related industries. The Community Childcare Cultivator (3by3) program has announced its Summer Evening Cohort orientation dates for Wednesday, May 14 and Thursday, May 15, both from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Synergic Center in Northport.

According to the Center for American Progress, most of Tuscaloosa County and West Alabama are considered "childcare deserts," where the demand for childcare significantly exceeds the supply. This shortage is particularly acute for families requiring care outside the traditional 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. workday, which is common among manufacturing and healthcare workers.

"This initiative is more than workforce training—it’s a solution to a systemic challenge that affects every employer and every working parent in our region," said Donny Jones, Executive Director of West AlabamaWorks. "We must cultivate the next generation of childcare professionals if we want our economy to grow and families to thrive."

The 3by3 program is offered at no cost to participants, thanks to the support of local partners and grant funding. Several organizations are braiding resources to cover the cost of training, supplies, and materials. To access this support, participants will complete an eligibility screening at orientation. Those previously found ineligible may now qualify under new funding criteria. All prospective participants must attend one of these orientation sessions, regardless of prior participation in earlier orientations.

“The childcare shortage is not just a family issue—it’s an economic issue,” said Dr. Jonathon Koh, President of Shelton State Community College. “Shelton State is proud to support the 3by3 initiative as it builds real pathways into careers that strengthen our communities from the ground up.”

“Child development is essential infrastructure,” added Holly Glasgow, Director of Child Development at Shelton State. “We are facing a dire shortage of early childhood educators, and programs like 3by3 help close that gap while honoring the dignity and importance of this profession.”

Participants are encouraged to register in advance at 3by3childcare.com. All attendees should bring the following documentation to orientation:

• Photo ID

• Social Security card

• Three recent pay stubs

• Unemployment verification letter, if applicable

• Benefit documentation (SNAP, TANF, WIC, etc.)

• Family demographics

“Tuscaloosa’s One Place sees firsthand how the lack of available childcare—especially outside of 8-to-5 hours—creates barriers for families and employers alike,” said Dr. Kevin D. Besnoy, Executive Director of Tuscaloosa’s One Place. “3by3 is a smart, compassionate solution to a deeply rooted problem.”

The 3by3 program empowers aspiring entrepreneurs by equipping them with the skills, credentials, and business knowledge needed to open and operate licensed childcare services. Through hands-on training in early childhood development, guidance on licensing requirements, and support with business fundamentals like budgeting, marketing, and compliance, participants gain the tools to launch successful, sustainable childcare businesses. 3by3 helps individuals turn their passion for children into a viable small business that serves families and strengthens the local workforce.

“As a soon-to-be first-time mom and full-time professional, I quickly learned how challenging it can be to find quality, affordable childcare in Tuscaloosa County,” said Kelsey Rush, President and CEO of Visit Tuscaloosa.  “From the moment we learned we were expecting, the advice was immediate – get on a daycare waitlist.  That’s the reality for many families in our community, and it adds pressure during a time that should be filled with excitement and preparation.”  

The Synergic Center is located at 3500 5th St., Northport, Alabama. For driving directions, visit https://bit.ly/3by3directions.

For more information or to register, visit 3by3childcare.com or contact Holly Glasgow at hglasgow@sheltonstate.edu or 205-391-2689.