Providing quality and accessible childcare to our community is at the heart of who we are at EmBe. Our mission thrives because of the connection we share with families who bring joy and purpose to everything we do. In today’s childcare climate, quality and reliable childcare is pivotal for working families. We’re honored to support parents like Erin Healy and Brandon De Jong as they navigate their professional and personal lives.
Erin, a state legislator and healthcare professional, and Brandon, a successful entrepreneur, have been making strides in their respective fields. Their journey with EmBe began through various community programs, including the Women’s Leadership Program, Dress for Success, Girls on the Run, and our Babysitting Camp—a favorite of their 11-year-old. These experiences eventually led them to entrust us with their youngest child, Arlo, in EmBe Education.
“Dropping your child off at daycare and placing trust in others to ensure their safety and well-being can be difficult,” Erin shared. “Having access to quality and reliable childcare has brought stability and peace of mind to our daily routine. It’s allowed us to maintain consistent work schedules, knowing Arlo is in a safe, nurturing environment.”
For the De Jongs, EmBe’s reliable childcare alleviates stress and enables them to focus on their professional and personal responsibilities, ultimately improving their overall well-being and allowing them to be more present as parents.
Erin highlighted the structured environment EmBe provides, which fosters Arlo’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. “We love that Arlo gets to interact with other children his age,” Erin noted. “The teachers are fantastic, offering a level of care and support that goes beyond basic childcare. They’re attentive, caring, and well-trained, creating a positive and engaging environment for Arlo and his classmates.”
Daily communication about Arlo’s activities, mood, and health reassures the De Jongs and strengthens their trust in EmBe’s dedicated childcare team.
Having dependable childcare has been instrumental in Erin and Brandon’s ability to excel professionally. “There have been instances where both of us had early work mornings, and we’ve appreciated EmBe’s extended childcare hours,” Erin explained. “Without this support, we’d face significant challenges balancing our careers and community commitments.”
Unreliable childcare would force their family to make difficult sacrifices, potentially impacting their small business and Erin’s work as a state legislator. Instead, consistent childcare has enabled them to maintain a healthy work-life balance and pursue their career aspirations.
Erin emphasized the ripple effects of high-quality childcare on the broader community. “Reliable childcare enables parents, especially women and single parents, to participate in the workforce,” she said. “It’s crucial for workforce development and building a stable economy. High-quality childcare also lays a strong foundation for children, fostering cognitive, social, and emotional capabilities that contribute to their long-term success.”
For parents struggling to find accessible childcare, Erin encourages persistence and advocacy. “Reach out to community centers, the Helpline Center, and local resources. Talk to other parents for recommendations and add your name to waitlists. Share your stories with elected officials to highlight the urgent need for accessible, affordable childcare in South Dakota.”
At EmBe, we’re proud to partner with families like the De Jongs, supporting their goals and strengthening our community through quality childcare.
To learn more about EmBe Education and to schedule a tour of either EmBe Downtown or EmBe South, go to embe.org/childcare.