Co-op Information
Membership
The administration of KidsPark is operated as a parent co-operative in order to provide reduced-cost child care to members. By donating time and talent, member families help maintain the high quality child care they value, and reap the benefits of building a community where they get to know the other members. Cooperative activities are overseen by KidsPark Parent Advisory Council (KPAC).
Co-op Involvement
KidsPark is unique in the level of commitment required from member families, and it may not be a good fit for all parents. Though specific requirements may vary depending on current needs and limitations, families can estimate a minimum of 3 hours of co-operative work each quarter, with a total of 12 hours over the course of the year.
The active involvement of all members is absolutely necessary for KidsPark to sustain itself and maintain our reasonable hourly rates. Failure to complete these requirements may result in additional fees or suspension of a family’s right to use KidsPark. For more information, please contact us or feel free to read through the Co-op Contract on the registration page.
Co-op Work Requirements
Hours volunteered toward membership requirements may vary depending on time of year, member skills or interests, and specific needs of the child care. Some examples of co-op work requirements include:
- Maintenance of the facilities
- Fundraising
- Community building
- Outreach
- Governance
- Classroom assistant
Daily Child Care Involvement
In addition to quarterly co-op responsibilities, parents also participate in the day to day maintenance of KidsPark by providing lunch, appropriate clothing, and washing sheets and blankets used by their child during the week. Members also work together to provide for each other, donating toys, clothing, and snacks for all children, supporting one another to make sure everyone is fully supplied for an exciting day of learning.
Co-op FAQ
What if I don't have time to volunteer?
Because of the unique model of KidsPark, active co-op involvement including volunteer hours is required to sustain the child care. If you’re not in a place to give volunteer hours, a full-time or all-inclusive childcare may be a better fit for your family.
Can I buy out of volunteer hours?
Making time to be involved at KidsPark is a big part of co-op membership and members are strongly encouraged to work with staff to find a route of involvement that works for everyone. If needed, members do have the option to buy out of required hours on a quarterly basis.
Do I have to have specific skills in order to become a member?
There are a wide variety of skills needed to run KidsPark, some less obvious than others. When registering, each member sends a list of skills or tasks they would be comfortable performing for volunteer hours, and KidsPark staff will work with members to accommodate all needs as much as possible.
