On November 4, 2025, Crittenton Center was honored to host Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand for an in-depth round-table discussion focused on the critical needs, challenges, and supports for child care and child welfare across Siouxland and the state of Iowa.
The event took place at our Stella East Child Care location in Sioux City and brought together a diverse group of key stakeholders — including members of the Iowa Childcare Coalition, Iowa AEYC, Head Start, Common Good Iowa, and other advocates, providers, parents, and community leaders — alongside Auditor Sand and his team.
In addition to the discussion, attendees had the opportunity to tour our Stella East facilities and engage directly with Crittenton Center’s child care staff, gaining firsthand insight into the day-to-day realities, successes, and challenges faced by early childhood providers.
“We were honored to host Auditor Sand and partners from across the state to have these critical conversations,” said Kim Scorza, CEO of Crittenton Center. “Child care and child welfare are foundational to healthy families and thriving communities. By bringing together leaders, advocates, and parents, we can work toward solutions that are both practical and sustainable for families in Siouxland and beyond.”
Auditor Sand, who has consistently emphasized accountability, transparency, and effective government, joined the discussion to listen, learn, and explore opportunities for improving systems that directly impact Iowa’s children and families.
Topics covered during the round-table included:
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The availability and accessibility of quality child care options across Iowa;
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Workforce challenges within the child care and early childhood sectors;
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Strengthening child welfare supports and prevention services to improve outcomes for families; and
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Increasing collaboration among providers, nonprofits, and government agencies to better meet community needs.
The event sparked meaningful dialogue and reinforced the shared commitment among all participants to advancing strong, equitable systems of care.
Crittenton Center is deeply grateful to Auditor Sand and all who participated in this important conversation. Together, we continue to build a stronger foundation for children and families across Siouxland and the state of Iowa.
