Steamboat Ski Resort's Childcare Center

Challenges

Access, Scalability, Worker Issues

Location

Colorado

Stakeholders

Businesses

Beneficiaries

Parents, Childcare Providers

Overview

Steamboat Springs, a ski resort, offers a near-site childcare center called the Steamboat Child Care Center (SCCC). This center was made affordable for employees through a 20% tuition discount and was strategically located near the resort to accommodate the demanding and irregular schedules of resort staff.

Key Impact Metrics

90%
of working parents intend to be working at Steamboat in a year
13
avoided absences per year per parent
70%
of working parents say childcare benefits helped them stay in the workforce
8/10
job satisfaction for working parents

Problem

Steamboat Springs and the broader Routt County are experiencing a significant childcare shortage, particularly for infants and toddlers. This crisis is driven by limited staffing, high housing costs, and the challenges of a rural setting with insufficient childcare infrastructure. A recent needs assessment revealed that licensed providers can accommodate only approximately 793 children under the age of five, while the local population includes around 1,035 children in that age group. Of those, just 43 infant and 86 toddler slots are available. These gaps severely impact parents’ ability to work—especially hourly and seasonal employees—often forcing them to forgo employment opportunities or endure long commutes to access care.

Solution

The solution implemented by the Steamboat Ski Resort was the creation of a near-site childcare center called the Steamboat Child Care Center (SCCC). This employer-sponsored initiative was financially supported by a $500,000 state grant and an equal contribution from the resort, totaling over $1 million for the facility. The resort subsidizes approximately 40% of the center’s annual operating costs, ensuring that employees receive a 20% discount on tuition. This model directly addressed the local childcare shortage and scheduling difficulties by providing 30 priority spots per day for employees, which reinforces the resort’s commitment to retaining and attracting talent in the demanding ski industry.

Results

Beneficiary Impact70% of working parents say childcare benefits helped them stay in the workforce
Employee Impact8 out of 10 job satisfaction for working parents at Steamboat Ski Resort
Financial Results$500,000 state grant

Replication Tips

Secure dual funding (public-private model): Do not rely solely on corporate funds. Seek a significant state or local government grant (like the $500,000 state grant the resort received) to offset construction or start-up costs. Match this with the company's own capital contribution.
Offer a clear, substantial employee subsidy: The financial benefit to the employee is key. Replicate the model of subsidizing a high percentage of operating costs (the resort subsidizes 40%) to offer employees a tangible tuition discount (the 20% discount).