GAR Foundation

Through the Fifth Quarter, Youth Success Summit and its partners have helped to reimagine summer learning as a time for exploration and growth.

As the 2026 program kicks off in early July, this work continues—connecting more young people to meaningful opportunities across Summit County.

➡️ Swipe to explore who YSS is, the story behind Fifth Quarter, and the impact that’s shaping what’s ahead this summer.

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This spotlight is part of GAR’s 2025 Impact Report. View the full report ➡️ www.garfoundation.org/2025-impact-report

An undeniable reality of childcare is that the system is in crisis. It is unaffordable for many families, inaccessible in many communities, and offers too little compensation or career mobility for workers, creating a cycle that is difficult to break.

We are grateful for the Early Childhood Resource Center's work as a convener and change maker to create worker-centered solutions that transform childcare in our community. Learn more ⬇️

The Shifting the Childcare Industry initiative focuses on helping child care workers build business skills, strengthen long term sustainability, and reduce isolation.

As a community partner in Akron, the Early Childhood Resource Center saw a need and took action. Family child care providers shared that they often felt unseen and lacked the tools to sustain and grow their businesses. In response, we helped bring together a cohort of 15 women-owned family child care programs to change that reality.

Through leadership sessions, one-on-one coaching, and ongoing support, these providers built business knowledge, formed meaningful connections, and gained confidence in their voices. They moved from working in isolation to building a strong network rooted in collaboration, not competition.

That momentum is real. Providers are advocating for themselves, engaging with local leaders, and helping shape the future of child care in Akron. When we invest in the people who care for children, whole communities benefit.

Learn more at https://shiftworkforward.org/breaking-the-triple-bind/

Shift Work Forward Akron Urban League Heart to Heart Leadership GAR Foundation Fund For Our Economic Future