Strengthening Child Care. Supporting Families. Building Communities.

For over 50 years, Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) has been a trusted leader in early childhood education and family support across Southwest Michigan. Established in 1973 as Child Care Resource & Referral of Kalamazoo, our mission has remained steadfast:

To strengthen and educate the early childhood workforce
To guide families in identifying quality child care options
To assist employers in promoting healthy work-life balance

In 1998, CCR&R streamlined its name to Child Care Resources, while continuing to serve as a hub for expertise, resources, and innovation.

Regional Impact

Today, Southwest Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) proudly serves eight counties—Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren.

Since 2009, CCR&R has operated the Great Start to Quality Resource Center, providing:

Training and technical assistance for child care providers across all settings
Consultation and online tools to help families access high-quality child care
Support for employers in creating stability for their workforce through reliable care options

Building Capacity and Quality

CCR&R is the region’s primary provider of professional development for child care professionals. From the Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program to specialized workshops, we equip providers with the tools, strategies, and support to deliver high-quality care.

By investing in the child care workforce and ensuring families have access to safe, affordable, and enriching programs, CCR&R plays a vital role in building strong children, strong families, and strong communities across Southwest Michigan.