Shape the Future of Child Care: CCAoA is Seeking Board Members

June 09, 2026

As the only national organization with an on-the-ground network supporting every part of the child care system—Child Care Aware of America launches a bold 10-year strategic vision that charts an ambitious course for what comes next.

Our 2027 Board of Directors will help carry that vision forward. They will open doors, champion our mission, and bring the recognition and resources this work deserves. We are now accepting nominations for four open Board seats, and we want to hear from you.

Why This Moment Matters

Every day, CCAoA's network works to turn a patchwork of resources into a system that helps families work, supports children's healthy development, and keeps our economy growing. Our new 10-year vision builds on nearly 40 years of that work—and we need board leaders who are ready to help shape the next decade, advocate for it, and invest in it.

What We're Looking For

The Board Development Committee is actively seeking candidates who bring qualifications in the following areas:

  • Fundraising and Development: Demonstrated commitment to a culture of philanthropy through active board participation, including making a personal financial contribution, cultivating donor relationships, opening doors to corporate partnerships, pursuing grants, and championing CCAoA's mission with philanthropic and public funding sources.
  • Government and Advocacy Relations: A network and standing in public policy, legislative, or regulatory spaces that positions CCAoA to influence decisions affecting child care access, quality, and funding nationwide.
  • Public and Community Influence: Established relationships with key communities, media, or public figures that can elevate CCAoA's visibility and expand its reach.
  • Network Leadership: CCAoA is actively recruiting at least two (2) Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) leaders, including at least one (1) representing a State CCR&R Network, as required by CCAoA bylaws.
  • Geographic Representation: Perspectives that reflect the regional diversity of the United States, with particular interest in candidates from the Southwest and South Central regions.

What Board Service Involves

Serving on the CCAoA Board of Directors is a meaningful commitment. Here is what prospective nominees should know:

  • Term length: Up to two consecutive three-year terms.
  • Meetings: The full Board meets up to four times annually—roughly two virtual meetings, which may span multiple time blocks, and up to two in-person meetings of one to two days each. Members of our governance committees have additional meeting commitments.
  • Travel: In-person board meetings occur roughly twice per year. Board members are also welcome—on an optional basis—to attend CCAoA's two annual signature events. Newly elected members for the 2027 term are expected to attend the Fall Board Meeting in Arlington, Virginia, October 29–30, 2026 as orientation guests.
  • Time commitment: Approximately 1–3 hours per month outside of scheduled meetings, varying based on committee involvement.
  • Culture of philanthropy: Board members are active participants in a culture of philanthropy. They make a personal annual financial contribution and play a pivotal role in CCAoA's broader fundraising efforts — cultivating relationships, making introductions, and helping connect the organization to the resources needed to advance our mission.

How to Nominate

To nominate yourself or someone else, please submit the following by July 8, 2026:

  • A completed nomination form
  • A document containing 2–3 references (name, contact information, and relationship to the candidate)
  • A personal or biographical statement
  • A resume
  • A high-resolution photo or headshot

Please highlight the nominee's qualifications in relationship to the priority areas listed above and relevant experience. Following submission, CCAoA will contact each nominee to confirm their willingness to be considered.

For additional information about CCAoA’s Board governance, please review the Bylaws.

Timeline

  • Nominations close: July 8, 2026
  • Member vote on slate: August 2026
  • Election concludes: September 2026
  • New Board members begin terms: January 1, 2027

We look forward to welcoming new leaders who are ready to shape what's next for child care in America.

April Dodge-Ostendorf

Written by April Dodge-Ostendorf

April Dodge-Ostendorf, MSW, is Senior Vice President of Strategy and Advancement at Child Care Aware® of America. With nearly 25 years of experience advancing social service systems for children and families at local, state, and national levels, she specializes in organizational leadership, fund development, and strategic alignment.