Let’s talk numbers: Does the mileage reimbursement actually cover the cost of driving?

Two powerful training opportunities are coming to El Dorado Springs and Clinton this August for child care providers, educators, and anyone working with young children. Strengthen your skills, gain new tools, and grow your impact!

When a historic flood in North Carolina forced Jonny Damico to leave everything behind, she found herself starting over in rural Missouri with no way to get to the daily care she needed. Thanks to New Growth Transit, what began as a ride to the doctor became a lifeline of support, connection, and newfound community.

Applications are now open for the 2025–2026 ECE Leader Fellows Program—a paid, yearlong opportunity for one parent and one child care provider from each community to grow their leadership and advocate for better child care access. Fellows from our area will receive $1,500 and work with New Growth.

Rebecca Price turned her passion for dogs into Dalmatia BnB—a thriving rural business with a big heart and a bigger mission. With support from New Growth, her work now reaches far beyond boarding and training to strengthen her entire community.

Who pays the cost when west central Missouri families are unable to find quality child care? A new Missouri study puts it into dollars and cents. A new west central Missouri team of community leaders is paying attention and taking action.

If you're a child care provider looking to grow your business skills, sharpen your professionalism, or better understand your bottom line, this summer learning series is for you.

Community Representatives are needed from rural Missouri to serve on the advisory board of the Missouri Rural Food Access Partnership. This is a meaningful opportunity to share your community’s voice and help strengthen food access both locally and across the state.

In 2024, our volunteer drivers gave more than just rides—they gave over 1 million miles of connection, care, and community. Let’s give a cheer (and maybe a honk!) for the top drivers who logged the most miles and delivered the most smiles. Plus, click through to more stories of why they drive!

Jane’s shop looked like a success—steady sales, happy customers, and a growing reputation. But when a big opportunity came along, the quiet lack of financial preparedness and early guidance didn’t seem to hold her back—only she had no idea that it did.

This long-awaited partnership expands access to essential healthcare for rural residents who often face long distances and limited or no public transportation options.

Leaders in Cedar, Henry, Polk, and St. Clair counties are using recent survey results to guide a regional child care action plan. With affordability and availability as key focus areas, they’re exploring innovative solutions like a Community Child Care Exchange and shared services to better support families and providers.