From parents and providers to employers and lawmakers, the call for child care solutions is growing louder. A recent forum hosted by New Growth and Kids Win Missouri put the issue front and center for families and communities across west central Missouri.

The New Growth Beginning Farmers & Ranchers Development Program helps new farmers in Missouri and Kansas gain mentorship, training, and market connections to start strong. With support from experienced farmers and partners, it builds pathways for the next generation of growers and stronger rural communities.

When a volunteer driver emailed our staff last week out of the blue, his words stopped us in our tracks. His story is a powerful reminder of why this work matters—not just for riders, but for the drivers who give so much.

Each ride is only possible because a neighbor steps up to drive—and we make sure those volunteers feel supported every mile of the way. With nearly 70 volunteers, some may wonder: how do we do that?

Parents, providers, and employers from Cedar, Henry, Polk, and St. Clair counties will sit down with invited state lawmakers to share experiences, highlight urgent needs, and discuss opportunities for real solutions and next steps.

Opening a business takes more than numbers—see how Nicole found the support through New Growth Women’s Business Center to launch Tolli Accounting in Nevada.

We're excited to announce and celebrate that with support in part from a 2025 grant from the Patterson Family Foundation, New Growth Transit is taking a big step toward long-term sustainability with much needed upgrades for technology and processes.

When Loretta Meyer faced daily cancer treatments 90 miles from home with no way to get there, a call to New Growth Transit changed everything. Today, she gives back as a volunteer driver—helping others get to critical care while mileage reimbursements help stretch her retirement income.

Child care shortages and costs in west central Missouri are holding families, businesses, and communities back—but local leaders are taking action. With research in hand and statewide support, a regional team is working on innovative solutions to expand access to quality, affordable child care.

Have some fun with us! Make plans to join the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency Fundraising Fun Event in Clinton, Missouri

We’re proud to announce the selection of two exceptional early childhood education champions for the 2025–2026 cohort representing our region—Cedar, Henry, Polk, and St. Clair counties: Amber Hansen and Charlotte Smithson.

When Miranda and her husband launched WEMO Wagyu, they had the cattle and the vision—but needed support to grow the business side. Now, their story is helping shine a national spotlight on the New Growth Women’s Business Center and its impact in rural Missouri.