After spending decades working in the public school system, Co. Pastor of Tabernacle of Grace Ministry Betty Dudley realized a need in her community and opened her Group Home child care, McDudley Care LLC. Betty takes great pride in serving children and families in her community of Columbia, and talks about the care and support she provides not only to the children, but their parents as well. Read more about Betty’s advocacy journey below!
Why did you become an advocate for ECE?
I truly believe that providers are the key in communicating the needs of the community to legislators.
Why do you think it’s important to be an advocate as a provider?
I think it is important because only the provider can tell the truth about the struggles and issues that they experience.
Why should Missouri invest more in early care and education?
Missouri should invest more in early care and education because 1) we can catch the children while they’re young, so they can be prepared for success in the future, and 2) providers are an extension of parents. Children spend more and more time with providers now, and it’s important to support those providers.
In one sentence, what does the ideal early care and education system look like for families in Missouri?
The ideal early care and education system looks like people striving for the future.