Early Care and Education Impacts Communities Quality early care and education (ECE) has far-reaching effects beyond children and families. It has a positive and lasting impact on communities, too! ECE promotes educational success, economic stability, reduced crime, improved health, stronger social connections, and more. So, it’s easy to see—when we invest in ECE, we invest in the well-being of children and the vitality and prosperity of communities. Fast Facts: ECE's Impact on Communities Higher Educational Attainment Quality ECE helps better prepare kids for school and can lead to higher high school graduation rates and college enrollment. Workforce and Economic Growth Access to quality ECE allows parents to work or pursue higher education, which can stimulate economic growth through a more skilled and stable workforce. Lower Crime Rates Research suggests that quality ECE helps reduce crime rates, saving communities costs associated with law enforcement and incarceration. How Business Leaders Can Help Support ECE As a business leader in your community, you can play a vital role in supporting quality early care and education. When you take action, you help create greater access to ECE, which benefits your employees, future workforce, community, and long-term economic interests. Below are a few resources to help you get started! Business-Child Care Partnership Tool Kit - Find information and resources on partnering with a child care provider in your community. How Business Leaders Can Help - Learn how you can support quality ECE within your community. Innovative Communities - See what other communities around Wisconsin are doing.