United Way Daycare Improvements
Indianapolis, IN

Children who spend time in high-quality early childhood programs are more likely to succeed in school. Child care ministries require assistance in improving their facilities to meet state voluntary standards associated with a high-quality program. In 2008 and 2009, 13 child care facilities were assessed and improvements to these facilities all related to the health and safety of the children who spend their days in these programs were undertaken. Each child care ministry is committed to long-term improvement of not only its facility, but also its curriculum, instruction and staff development. Improvements include: upgrading light fixtures, additional restrooms, monitored fire alarm system, emergency exits, adequate windows and daylight, sinks in toddler and infant rooms, additional square footage for classrooms, and fencing around outdoor play areas.

The following Indianapolis daycares were assessed: Englewood Daystar Childcare, East 10th Little Dove Daycare, Little Duckling Daycare III, Emmanuel Preparatory Academy, 7th Heaven Christian Academy, Mount Zion's Loving Daycare, God's Little Ones of Faith, Shining Star's Preschool and Childcare, Lesure's Little Ones, Pride Academy, Guardian Angels, Angel Care Child Development Ministry, and Rosies Tiny Tots Daycare Ministry

Currently underway, Phase II of the Childcare Improvement Project requires Halstead Architects to evaluate an additional 65 registered ministry daycares in Central Indiana.