(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

When there is a need in our communities, sometimes it takes collaboration among multiple local organizations to work toward a solution. In the case of our region’s need for more quality, affordable child care options, it took West Virginia University at Parkersburg, WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center and Community Resources to partner on a way to greatly expand Bright Beginnings Child Care.

With the new Innovation and Technology Center at the former Ohio Valley University campus, there is a great deal of potential for our region, and these collaborators spotted it as a way to host a larger Bright Beginnings center at the facility.

“The college has decided to do the upfront costs for this project because we know that child care is one of the issues that our students face, in addition to the community at large,” said Torie Jackson, president of WVUP.

Camden Clark officials understood the partnership is a win-win, as increasing the number of available slots from 60 to 130 will be huge for its employees.

“This collaboration aligns with WVU Medicine’s ongoing commitment to support our staff in achieving work-life balance by offering convenient child care services for their families,” Camden Clark President and CEO Sean Smith said.

It’s a collaboration that could be the beginning of brighter things for all of us, as others understand the effects of such an opportunity.

“This project is not just about bricks and mortar — it’s about building a stronger future for working families in our region,” said Michelle Barber, Community Resources executive director and CEO. “Access to high-quality, affordable child care is a game-changer for parents striving for economic stability. We are incredibly proud to be a part of this transformative effort with WVU Parkersburg and WVU Medicine Camden Clark.”

And the rest of us are glad such a partnership came together. Let us hope it is but the first of many.