In a move set to redefine early childhood care and bolster economic strength in Alamosa, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley has broken ground on a $10.8 million childcare facility.
Designed to serve as both a community resource and a catalyst for progress, this initiative addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing families and employers in the region. Backed by a coalition of more than 25 organizations, the project targets three critical issues: insufficient access, prohibitive costs and a severe lack of licensed childcare slots for young children.
“For several years, families in the San Luis Valley have faced daunting odds in securing reliable, high-quality care for their youngest members,” said Aaron Miltenberger, co-executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs.
“In the San Luis Valley, we currently have licensed childcare spots for just three out of every 10 children under six and only one for every 10 children under three,” Miltenberger continued. “This shortage impacts our workforce, business growth and, most importantly, the well-being of our children.”
The consequences of this shortage ripple through every sector of life in Alamosa. For young families, the lack of options means waiting lists stretching over nine months at local centers, uncertain schedules, and a scramble to find short-term solutions. It’s a scenario that makes it challenging not only for families to put down roots but also for businesses and institutions to attract and retain talent.
“One of our biggest barriers to growth is a lack of childcare. If families can’t find high-quality care, they’re unlikely to move here” said Miltenberger.
What sets this project apart is the breadth and depth of community commitment. The facility’s funding model is a study in collaborative spirit. Through an initiative called the Mayor’s Challenge, Alamosa’s leadership mobilized more than 30 funders to contribute amounts from $25 to $25,000, raising $106,700. The city bolstered this with a matching grant of $50,000, demonstrating municipal commitment at a pivotal stage. To date, the collective community effort has contributed more than $8 million, with a remaining $2.2 million yet to be raised. To bridge the gap, the Boys and Girls Club made a bold move, leveraging its own building as collateral for a key loan.
“Everything we do in this Valley, we do together,” said Miltenberger.
That ethos is evident in the sheer number of contributors. More than 150 businesses, organizations, civic leaders and private donors have participated over the years.
The construction site stands as a humming center of activity and promise. With the roof already in place, both exterior and interior teams are moving efficiently through their checklists.
Designers and project managers have worked hand-in-hand with childcare experts to craft a facility that anticipates family needs and supports children’s growth. The facility will feature radiant-heated infant and toddler rooms, along with convenient parking for car seats.
Other design highlights include observation and therapy rooms to support children with varying developmental needs, safety-focused drop-off and pick-up loops, and shared restrooms. The spaces have been carefully mapped to balance security, accessibility and a homelike atmosphere.
At the operational heart of the new center is Little Learners Academy, a brand-new nonprofit entity with its own independent board and executive director. Little Learners Academy will administer the day-to-day programming, serving families of every income level. Enrollment will range from no-cost slots for those in greatest need to standard private-pay arrangements and employer-sponsored positions.
“We’re building a future where every child, regardless of their family’s income, has an equal shot at high-quality care and early education,” said Miltenberger.
Alamosa is experiencing a wave of economic development, driven in part by the arrival of new businesses and hotels. These investments bring jobs and new residents, but without adequate childcare solutions, the risk of bottlenecking growth is significant. Local leaders see the Boys & Girls Clubs childcare project as more than just a building — it’s an anchor point for educational, social and economic progress.
Access to reliable childcare is essential not just for families with young children, but also for attracting professionals to the area, supporting single-parent households pursuing education or career advancement, and boosting local business productivity.
“This project is foundational,” said Miltenberger. “For years, we’ve struggled with turnover and recruiting issues linked directly to childcare shortages. Having a facility like this will help stabilize our businesses and allow the community to continue growing.”
The anticipated generational impact is difficult to overstate. With well-designed and affordable childcare slots, more parents can participate fully in the workforce. Children will benefit from enriched early learning in safe, developmentally appropriate environments, setting the stage for stronger outcomes in school and beyond.
As the facility nears completion, community leaders are planning to offer public tours before opening day. These events will serve as a celebration not only of the new building, but also of what’s possible when the San Luis Valley comes together with a common purpose.
“This project shows what we can achieve in the San Luis Valley when neighbors step up together. Generations of local families will benefit not just economically, but in the quality of life we’re building together,” said Miltenberger.
