Erica Phillips of the National Association for Family Child Care, shares her journey into child care advocacy and discusses the critical role of family child care homes, the challenges they face, and how the business community can support these essential services. This conversation, hosted by Aaron Merchen of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is part of the “Continuing the Conversation” series.
From Engineering to Child Care Advocacy
Phillips notes her upbringing in South Philadelphia on the same block as her grandmother as a catalyst in her journey. Her grandmother ran a small child care business from home, providing a valuable, safe, and supportive space for the kids in her community. As Phillips grew up and prepared to pursue a career, she knew two things: she liked math and science and like her grandmother, she wanted to give back to the community that nurtured her, so she pursued engineering.
Phillips’ passion is driven by this enthusiasm for community service and the realization that quality child …