Pike County to recognize childcare providers at March 10 “Provider Palooza”

By DAVID CAMPHOUSE

Child care providers across Pike County will be recognized next month during “Provider Palooza,” a community celebration scheduled for Tuesday, March 10, from 6–8 p.m. at John Wood Community College’s Southeast Education Center in Pittsfield.
The event is being organized by the Pike County Child Care Task Force as part of a broader effort to strengthen the county’s child care system. Pike County continues to face a shortage of accessible, high‑quality child care options — a challenge that affects working families, employers, and long‑term economic growth.
Organizers of “Provider Palooza” say the celebration is designed not only to honor those who have served in the field, but also to encourage new providers to enter the childcare industry.
“Child care is essential infrastructure for a strong workforce and local economy,” said Gina Sheurman, Executive Director of the Pike County Chamber & Economic Development Corporation, in the press release. “When families have reliable child care, businesses can attract and retain employees, and communities are better positioned to grow.”
The Pike County Child Care Task Force is led by April Darringer, Early Childhood Coordinator at John Wood Community College. The group includes representatives from West Central Child Care Connection, Birth to Five Illinois: Region 1, business and economic development leaders, philanthropic foundations, school districts, and other community partners.
“This event is about appreciation, connection, and listening,” Darringer said in the release. “Child care providers are the backbone of working families in Pike County. We want to honor their dedication while also creating space for them to connect, share experiences, and access helpful resources.”
Provider Palooza will feature refreshments, appreciation gifts, and resource tables hosted by early childhood and family‑serving organizations. Attendees will also be able to learn about pathways into the child care profession, including licensing requirements and available supports for new providers.
The event is open to licensed child care providers, early childhood professionals, and community members interested in exploring child care opportunities in Pike County and surrounding areas.
More information is available by contacting the Pike County Child Care Task Force at [email protected], or by reaching out to April Darringer at John Wood Community College or Gina Sheurman with the Pike County Chamber & Economic Development Corporation. The Task Force also shares updates on Facebook.