The History of AFCCA

The Alaska Family Child Care Society was formally started on August 9, 1983. The charter members were Jo Bybee, President; Rosa Giancaspero, Vice President; Roxie Greer, Secretary; and Debbie Alexander, Treasurer. It was originally formed as a networking organization. All functions were social events with training as a second function.

Monthly meetings/workshops were held with the entire membership. In 1986/87, AFCCS received a three year Education & Training Grant from the State of Alaska to fund a quarterly newsletter (printing and mailing), quarterly workshops (with a trainer stipend), and travel funds to offer training and recruitment in chapter areas. Changes were made to quarterly general membership meetings when monthly board meetings and training became more important.

AFCCS was often asked to represent family child care providers on a number of community, local, and state committees. Later we were also asked to comment on state licensing regulations. Volunteer of the Year was established as well as outside chapter involvement.

AFCCS began offering the food program in January 1987, now called the Alaska Family Child Care Food Program. In March 1990, AFCCS held the first family child care conference . The first Provider of the Year was October 1990 and later was reestablished in May 2005 as part of a Provider Appreciation Day events.

The named changed from Alaska Family Child Care Society to Alaska Family Child Care Association in 1994 to reflect the affiliation with National Family Child Care Associations and the continued movement toward professionalism.

Today, the Alaska Family Child Care Association continues its march toward promoting and supporting quality child care by providing training, networking and support groups, and mentoring to child care providers and more. This organization belongs to its members and can be what you want it to be. If a member needs mentoring, we have members that will mentor providers about their business. If a member needs training, AFCCA has increased the availability of training and other resources.

This is your organization. An organization for family child care providers and advocates of family child care. Please join us as our organization grows and continue the history of the Alaska Family Child Care Association. To Be Continued...for years to come!


Past Presidents