Inaugural Award Recognizes Trailblazing Nonprofits Strengthening West Michigan’s Lakeshore Communities
Lakeshore Advantage congratulates the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) and the Outdoor Discovery Center (ODC) Network on being named recipients of the inaugural Lakeshore Advantage Strategic Partner of the Year Award. The two organizations were selected by Lakeshore Advantage as joint finalists in ‘Access to Childcare’, one of three finalist categories for tackling economic challenges and strengthening West Michigan’s lakeshore communities. This award recognizes trailblazing non-profit organizations that are helping to overcome barriers to economic growth and opportunity. Lakeshore Advantage relies deeply on hundreds of collaborators to work in partnership with our team to overcome these challenges and seize opportunities.
Ottawa and Allegan counties are the first- and fourth-fastest-growing counties in the state, respectively. Analysts have cited low unemployment rates—thanks to the region’s strong foundation of businesses—as one reason for the growth. This significant growth has resulted in increased demand for housing, childcare, and workforce development. Three finalists were named for the award:
- Latin Americans United for Progress (LAUP) for their work in workforce development
- Allegan County Community Foundation (ACCF) for tackling challenges related to housing on the lakeshore
- Ottawa Area Intermediate School District and the Outdoor Discovery Center network were jointly nominated for increasing access to childcare.
Accessible and affordable childcare is critical to the region’s economic strength. Childcare allows parents to join or remain in the workforce and contribute economically to their families and the community. A growing region has increased the demand for childcare. Research indicates a significant shortage of childcare spots. Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) is a leading partner with the Outdoor Discovery Center (ODC) Network in making significant strides to open more spots across the region.
Outdoor Discovery Center Network
ODC Network is well underway on its plans to add up to 1,000 new childcare spots by 2025. The organization leveraged a $7.5 million grant from Ottawa County’s American Rescue Plan Act with an additional $30 million of private funds from 30 community partners and area businesses to alleviate the shortage.
Ottawa Area Intermediate School District
OAISD is simultaneously working on a regional childcare planning project thanks to a $150,000 grant from the Early Childhood Investment Corporation, a statewide leader in early childhood success. Together with Allegan Area Educational Services Agency, OAISD is working to identify existing childcare options in Allegan and Ottawa Counties to address gaps and invest in opportunities for the future.
These organizations are leveraging unique, innovative approaches that strengthen our lakeshore communities.