(Madison, WI, April 1, 2024) – The Playing Field, an innovative early child care center that specializes in trauma-informed care, high-quality education, and family support for all socio-economic backgrounds, has raised over $4,034,000 to expand programs and services for up to 100 children on Madison’s east side.
The funds will be used to build and furnish 15,000 square feet at the Tributary Hub, a former Menards store on East Springs Drive that is owned by the Plumbers Union Local 75 and used as an apprenticeship training facility. The Playing Field serves children aged 6 weeks to 6 years old from all socio-economic backgrounds, including those impacted by homelessness, and its new school inside the Tributary is positioned as a resource both for Plumbers Union members and for low- or no-income parents who might pursue a career in plumbing.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible support we have received from donors in our community,” said Abbi Kruse, Founder and Executive Director of The Playing Field. “Their gifts will help us realize our vision for creating an equal playing field for children, especially those from low-income families who face significant barriers in accessing child care.”
Lead donors to the project include the Pleasant Rowland Foundation, American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation, Roots & Wings Foundation, Otto Bremer Trust, PRL Keystone Foundation, Caritas Foundation and Lau and Bea Christensen. A public ground-breaking ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 4, at 9 a.m.
“We are proud to be part of The Playing Field’s vision to provide more opportunities for high-quality child care where kids from all background can learn together,” said Noah Salata, Senior Grantmaking and Community Engagement Specialist at American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation. “We believe in building partnerships with not-for-profits that are changing lives in our community, and we are happy to support The Playing Field and their mission to prepare children for school and life.”
The Playing Field has been held up as a model in caring for children who have experienced early adversity alongside children from more advantaged families. Cost and transportation are oftentimes barriers for families who need quality child care. The Playing Field removes those barriers and gives families a chance to build a path to financial stability.
Thanks to the new space inside the Tributary, which offers observation areas and access to an auditorium, educators from around the country will be able to learn about The Playing Field’s trauma-sensitive practices and learn more about its model for equity in early education.
The expansion at the Tributary includes a partnership with the Plumbers Union and The Road Home Dane County that will support families in a coordinated effort with child care, job-training opportunities and affordable housing resources. The United Way of Dane County, the City of Madison and the Madison Community Foundation are also supporting The Playing Field’s program.
Campaign Co-Chair Jay Sekelsky said he is thrilled with the remarkable generosity. “People in our community recognize the need for high-quality child care, and this expansion is happening at a critical time – when some centers are closing. Teachers at The Playing Field help children learn how to communicate and manage big emotions. When people meet Abbi and see how her team works with children and their families, it’s easy to understand how The Playing Field is different.”
Construction will begin this spring with a goal to open the new center in January 2025. The Playing Field has selected CG Schmidt as the contractor for the project.
