WDS/CCRR MISSION STATEMENT:

Workforce Development Services Inc. / Childcare Resource and Referral program believes in improving the quantity, the quality and the accessibility of child care to meet the needs of the culturally diverse children and families in Lake, Porter and LaPorte County communities of Northwest Indiana. WDS/CCRR supports families, child care providers and employers.

What Does WDS, Inc. / Child Care Resource and Referral Do?

Helps parents find child care...

Choosing child care is one of the most important decisions families make, but all too often they must rely on word-of-mouth. , WDS/ CCRR help parents take the guesswork out of choosing care - giving them referrals to local child care providers, information on state licensing requirements, availability of child care subsidies, and other important information. WDS CCRR can provide guidance tailored to each individual family by phone, in person, and on the internet.

Supports families to raise healthy children...

By talking with parents one-on-one, WDS/ CCRR counselors gain a unique understanding of the delicate balance of family life, particularly for low-income families. They understand that finding high-quality child care is just a first step to raising happy, healthy children. Through workshops, hot lines, and newsletters, WDS/CCRR reaches out to parents with trusted, local information that enables them to make informed choices.

Helps providers to become licensed...

Through orientation trainings WDS/CCRR provides an entry point to the child care field by helping providers meet licensing requirements.

Improve the quality of child care...

No one has a greater impact on the quality of care than the people who work with children every day. That is why WDS/CCRR provides ongoing professional development opportunities to child care providers and staff by offering free training in diverse topics like health & safety, child development, and sound business practices. .